August 18, 2025: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has outlined an ambitious vision to transform the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) with a series of large-scale infrastructure projects, including the creation of two new cities. Speaking at a CREDAI-MCHI press conference, where Sukhraj Nahar was appointed as the body’s 18th President, Mr Fadnavis highlighted key transport upgrades alongside major urban development initiatives.
The Chief Minister confirmed that the Versova–Bandra Sea Link, now 60% complete, will be ready within the next two years. “This sea link network will function as a true parallel to the Western Expressway, currently carrying 60% of Mumbai’s traffic,” he said. The project’s extension towards Dahisar and Bhayander is also progressing, with completion targeted in the next two to three years. Additionally, a new ring road will be constructed from Bhayander (Uttan), passing through Virar and extending to the under-construction Vadhavan Port, with work expected to commence within the year.
Mr Fadnavis also unveiled plans for the development of “Third Mumbai” and “Fourth Mumbai”. The northern belt of MMR will form the Fourth Mumbai, envisioned as a major economic and logistical hub with a dedicated bullet train station. Its prospects will be strengthened by the upcoming Vadhavan Port, set to become India’s largest.
Third Mumbai, centred around Navi Mumbai, is designed as a technology and knowledge hub. Anchored by the Atal Setu and the forthcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, the city will host 60 per cent of India’s data capacity and a 300-acre education city. This facility will welcome 12 top global universities, with seven already having signed agreements.
To support such expansion, the MMRDA has been directed to develop a new township through public-private partnership, with builders holding 76 per cent equity and the government retaining 24%
Source: Economic Times
