Master balancing reservoir under the Godavari drinking water supply project faces delays

The HMWSSB is yet to complete the construction of the 150-mld master balancing reservoir (MBR) proposed under the Godavari Drinking Water Supply Project Phase I. The civic agency had awarded the construction work to Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited (MEIL) at a cost of Rs 500 million. However, due to increase in raw material prices over the years, MEIL has requested HMWSSB to revise the MBR construction cost to Rs 800 million. However, the board is yet to make a final decision regarding the revised cost and the sources to fund the same. Originally, the reservoir was planned to be completed by 2014, but was delayed due to issues such as public protests and delays in acquiring forest land and obtaining permissions.