October 08, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated Phase 1 of the much-anticipated Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), a landmark project aimed at decongesting the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and redefining aviation infrastructure in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
Built at a cost of around Rs 19,650 crore, NMIA spans 1,160 hectares and features a futuristic lotus-inspired architectural design, making it one of India’s most visually striking airports. “With this, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region will get its second major international airport, thus boosting commerce and connectivity,” PM Modi posted on X before inaugurating the project.
The new airport, twice the size of the existing international airport in Mumbai, is designed to set new benchmarks in capacity, sustainability, and technology. Phase 1 will handle 20 million passengers annually and 0.8 million tonnes of cargo, with full capacity expected to reach 90 million passengers and 3.2 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo per year.
Equipped with AI-driven surveillance, an Automated People Mover system, and Water Taxi connectivity, the airport will serve as a critical gateway for both domestic and international travelers. It will also be seamlessly connected to the Gold Line Metro, ensuring swift transit links across the city.
PM Modi will also launch Mumbai Metro Line-3, a 33.5-km fully underground corridor extending from Cuffe Parade to Aarey JVLR, covering 27 stations and serving 13 lakh passengers daily. “Metro connectivity is essential for a city’s growth. This project will have a positive impact on the lives of the people of Mumbai,” PM Modi stated on X.
The metro line will provide direct access to key financial and administrative hubs such as the RBI, BSE, Mantralaya, and Nariman Point, while connecting South Mumbai’s cultural districts, including Fort, Kala Ghoda, and Marine Drive.
Source: Times Now
