The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has initiated the process for an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for a major water supply project that will serve 12 newly-merged villages. This project is part of PMC's strategy to enhance infrastructure in areas added to its jurisdiction, which now spans approximately 510 square kilometers. The ESIA will be conducted by a selected consultant and is expected to take two-and-a-half months. The water supply project includes the construction of a 200 million litres per day (MLD) water treatment plant, a 100 MLD pumping system, and a 288.45 km distribution network, along with 66.39 km of transmission lines and 52 reservoirs. Funding support of ₹1,400 crore (approximately $168 million USD) is being sought from the World Bank to develop water infrastructure in 20 out of 23 merged villages. The ESIA will identify potential environmental and social risks while ensuring compliance with national regulations and international standards, including those set by the International Finance Corporation (IFC). This comprehensive assessment will involve stakeholder consultations and detailed studies on socio-economic conditions and biodiversity.