Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is expected to move his office from Mantralaya to Mumbai’s iconic Air India building at Nariman Point, as the state government looks to address the growing shortage of administrative space in South Mumbai.
The Maharashtra government recently acquired the 23-storey sea-facing commercial tower for Rs 1,601 crore. A high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary is scheduled to review the relocation process and plans for redeveloping the landmark property.
Built in 1974 on reclaimed land belonging to the Maharashtra government, the Air India building was once among Mumbai’s most recognisable commercial landmarks. After Air India’s privatisation and transfer of ownership to the Tata Group, the property became part of the non-core assets managed by Air India Assets Holding Limited (AIAHL). It was later purchased by the Maharashtra government.
According to an NDTV report, the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) is likely to be located on the top floor of the building, while a new 13,363-square-foot Cabinet Hall is planned on the 22nd floor. The government also intends to shift various departments currently operating from rented premises outside Mantralaya to the building.
Officials estimate that the relocation could help the state save nearly Rs 200 crore every year in rental costs. The move comes amid increasing pressure on Mantralaya, which was constructed in 1955 and has struggled with limited office space. Over the years, the government has leased nearly nine lakh square feet of additional office space in surrounding commercial buildings to accommodate departments.
Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Shivendrasinh Bhosale said the acquisition would play a key role in strengthening Maharashtra’s administrative infrastructure. He said the building would be transformed into a modern government complex with emphasis on quality, sustainability and citizen-focused facilities.
After the property was handed over, Bhosale instructed officials to carry out a detailed structural audit and complete necessary repair work before government offices are shifted. He also directed that upgrades to electrical systems and technical infrastructure should follow high standards to ensure long-term efficiency.
The minister further proposed redesigning the building’s entrance to showcase Maharashtra’s cultural identity and suggested involving reputed architects and specialised agencies to convert the landmark structure into a modern administrative centre.
Source: The Free Press Journal
