Mumbai, June 17, 2026: Social activist and public commentator Sashikumar Nair has urged the Government to place greater emphasis on addressing the city’s growing water challenges rather than pursuing new infrastructure projects.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Sashikumar Nair appealed to the Government to immediately suspend the approval and commencement of new building construction activities until the monsoon season is fully established and water availability stabilizes.
He also called for a reconsideration of the proposed internal Metro corridor connecting Rayladevi and Balkum, suggesting that the project be shelved in view of the city’s pressing water concerns.
According to Nair, the Government should divert its attention and resources towards establishing a large-scale desalination plant on a war footing. He argued that ensuring a reliable, sustainable, and long-term water supply for Mumbai’s residents is far more critical at present than launching additional infrastructure projects.
“A dependable and adequate water supply is the need of the hour and should be treated as the Government’s foremost priority,” he stated.
Sashikumar Nair emphasized that water security is fundamental to the city’s future growth and quality of life, and urged policymakers to take immediate and decisive action to safeguard Mumbai’s water needs for the years ahead.
— Based on a statement issued by Sashikumar Nair on June 17, 2026.