The Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) is projected to contribute nearly Rs 1.7 lakh crore to Maharashtra’s economy by 2047 through large-scale infrastructure, housing, and transport projects, Lok Sabha MP Shrikant Shinde said during The Hindu Maharashtra Infrastructure Conclave on Friday.
Speaking at a session on the future expansion of the metropolis, Shinde said the MMR had already received investments worth around Rs 4 lakh crore. He stated that upcoming data centres, logistics hubs in Navi Mumbai, and the proposed Vadhavan Port would generate employment opportunities and help ease developmental pressure on Mumbai city.
He also highlighted the development of a 377-km metro network across the region, describing it as one of the world’s largest metro systems. According to him, Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC), Ambernath, and Ulhasnagar civic bodies have already integrated their road and water transport systems.
Shinde added that projects such as a Water Metro, a new road connecting Badlapur and Navi Mumbai, and an access-controlled expressway aimed at improving regional connectivity were currently under development. Plans for transport through 101 waterways are also being explored, he said. He further announced that the proposed Thane Metro project was likely to receive approval soon, while work on the Kalyan Metro was already underway.
Mumbai Suburban Guardian Minister Ashish Shelar acknowledged that the city’s 437 sq. km suburban region continued to face several urban challenges that would require time to resolve. He said the BEST bus network had weakened due to decisions taken by the previous government led by Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray.
According to Shelar, the present administration has increased funding support for BEST and initiated route remapping to improve services. More than 1,000 new buses have already been added to the fleet, while additional buses are expected over the next four years.
SRA Chief Executive Officer Mahendra Kalyankar said Mumbai aims to build five lakh rehabilitation homes of 300 sq. ft for slum dwellers by 2030, of which nearly 2.97 lakh units have already been completed. He added that the Dharavi redevelopment project would include metro connectivity and skill development initiatives.
Source: The Hindu
