Archive · 5 Nov 2025
BMC May Extend Bidding Deadline for Versova Desalination Plant
Mumbai wants to build two new plants that turn seawater into fresh water, called desalination plants.
One plant is planned for Versova, and it will be built by a company that designs, builds, pays for, and runs it before transferring it to the city.
Because this is a big job, the city might give companies more time to bid on it.
The other plant, planned for Manori, is moving forward, and the city is close to finalizing a deal with the company that offered the lowest price, although the cost is higher than expected.
These plants are important because Mumbai needs more water than it currently has, and more will be needed in the future.
BMC may extend the bidding deadline for a 200-MLD desalination plant at Versova.
The Versova plant will use a Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) model.
Six bidders showed interest in the Versova plant, but extensions are likely due to demands for more time.
Negotiations for Mumbai's first desalination plant in Manori are nearing finalization with GVPR as the frontrunner.
The new plants are crucial for meeting Mumbai's increasing water demand, which is projected to reach 6,535 MLD by 2041.
- Who
- Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)
- What
- Considering extending the bidding deadline for a new desalination plant at Versova and finalizing negotiations for a plant at Manori.
- When
- The BMC is likely to finalize negotiations for the Manori plant this month; the bidding deadline for the Versova plant is likely to be extended.
- Where
- Versova and Manori, Mumbai
- Why
- To meet Mumbai's growing water demands, which currently exceed supply and are projected to increase significantly by 2041.
BMC Perspective
Bidder Concerns
Project Model and Scope
BMC Perspective
The DBFOT model for the Versova plant is wider in scope, requiring more time for concessionaires to plan and conduct studies.
Bidder Concerns
Bidders have requested more time due to the extensive responsibilities under the DBFOT model, including feasibility studies, environmental assessments, design, construction, and operation.
- Location of Proposed Plants
- Versova and Manori
- Capacity of Each Plant
- 200 MLD (Million Liters per Day)
- Project Model for Versova Plant
- Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT)
- Current Water Supply vs. Demand
- Supply: 3,950 MLD, Demand: 4,505 MLD
- Projected Water Demand by 2041
- 6,535 MLD
- Frontrunner for Manori Plant
- GVPR, a joint venture