December 15, 2025: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday announced a massive expansion of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region’s Metro network, stating that its total length will increase nearly fourfold to 374 km in the coming years. Speaking in the House, he said over 280 km would be added to the existing 91 km network to significantly improve east–west and north–south connectivity across the region.
According to the chief minister, 132 km of new Metro lines will become operational within the next two years, followed by another 151 km in subsequent phases. The expansion is aimed at easing congestion, improving commuting efficiency, and supporting the region’s long-term urban growth.
Addressing the state’s financial position, Fadnavis said Maharashtra’s economy remains strong, fiscally disciplined, and attractive for investors. Public debt stands at 18.87% of gross state domestic product (GSDP), well below the Reserve Bank of India’s 25% threshold. He noted that Maharashtra is among only three states—along with Gujarat and Odisha—where debt levels remain below 20% of GSDP. The fiscal deficit, he added, has been kept under 3% despite welfare initiatives such as Laadki Bahin and free power for farmers, which are expected to complete their five-year terms.
Regarding investment inflows, the chief minister stated that Maharashtra continues to lead the country in foreign direct investment. The state attracted Rs 1.6 lakh crore in 2024–25 and Rs 91,337 crore in the first two quarters of 2025–26, accounting for 31% of India’s total FDI. He added that 75% of memoranda of understanding worth Rs 17.6 lakh crore signed at Davos since 2022 have been implemented, while projects worth Rs 13.8 lakh crore under the composite incentive scheme are underway, with an estimated employment potential of 7.1 lakh jobs.
Fadnavis also outlined key MMR road projects, including the Mumbai–Kalyan–Latur–Hyderabad Expressway, coastal road extensions, multiple tunnel corridors, the Pune Ring Road, and other missing link projects. On power reforms, he said prepaid smart meters would not be installed for general domestic consumers, while those opting for them would receive a 10% rebate.
Reiterating that Mumbai will “always remain an inseparable part of Maharashtra”, the chief minister dismissed speculation about the city’s separation, calling such claims baseless and election-driven.
