Discover the noteworthy infrastructure developments underway in Maharashtra under the leadership of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. As part of the state’s growth vision, these projects are set to reshape the region’s landscape.

Snapshot

Over the upcoming years, Maharashtra is poised for the realization of several significant infrastructure initiatives, which were either previously underway, stalled, or proposed.

Key Projects Overview

Under Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s guidance, the Maharashtra government has actively advanced various infrastructure projects, fostering a renewed focus on transportation networks and urban redevelopment.

Amid these endeavors, the government has cultivated an environment that appeals to industries, both domestic and foreign, leveraging solid infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and favorable amenities.

1. Metro Network In Mumbai And Pune

Mumbai and Pune, pivotal growth engines, are prioritizing enhanced mass transit systems. To this end, ambitious metro networks are rapidly taking shape in both cities, fostering economic growth and improving mobility.

The expansive Mumbai Metro, with its comprehensive 14-line network, seeks to transform city travel and facilitate urban expansion by connecting various regions.

Citizens eagerly anticipate the completion of these transit systems, which faced previous delays due to political complexities and administrative perspectives.

Following a leadership transition in July 2022, the state government elevated the status of metro projects, placing them high on the new administration’s agenda. This commitment materialized in the successful launch of recent metro lines.

With an ambitious goal of completing the extensive network by 2026, additional Mumbai Metro corridors and car depots are also progressing swiftly.

Similarly, Pune’s infrastructure suffered from neglect across successive governments, particularly during the 15-year Congress-NCP rule. The Pune Metro, hindered by legal disputes and alignment debates, experienced setbacks.

However, with determined political resolve, the government expedited the project, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating two new sections on August 1, 2023.

The Pune Metro encompasses two corridors: the north-south corridor (Purple line) and the east-west corridor (Aqua line), spanning a combined 33.2 km and featuring 30 stations.

Maha Metro aims to finalize construction on these two corridors by year-end, effectively connecting crucial city areas and introducing a modern metro system to Pune.

2. Samruddhi Mahamarg

Officially known as Hindu Hruday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg, this 701-km-long expressway links Mumbai and Nagpur, facilitating seamless connectivity.

The inaugural phase of this project, the 520-km-long Nagpur-Shirdi stretch, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi in December 2022.

The subsequent phase, an 80 km stretch connecting Shirdi and Bharvir village in Igatpuri taluka in Nashik district, was inaugurated on May 27. The remaining 100-km stretch is projected for completion by the year’s end or March of the following year.

Chief Minister Shinde emphasized the positive impact of the Mumbai-Nagpur Samruddhi Expressway on the state’s farmers and expressed confidence in the timely completion of the remaining phases.

3. Urban Renewal Projects — Dharavi Redevelopment and Thane Cluster Development

The Dharavi redevelopment project (DRP), initially proposed in 1999, has faced substantial delays attributed to various administrative challenges. However, under the Shinde-Fadnavis administration, the project regained momentum.

In September 2022, the Maharashtra cabinet announced a fresh call for global bids for the DRP, further enhancing the ambitious urban renewal project. The Adani group emerged as the highest bidder in November 2022, committing to a significant investment.

Maharashtra’s government approved the Adani Group’s bid in July, marking a pivotal step forward in Dharavi’s redevelopment, addressing the needs of one of Mumbai’s most densely populated areas.

The Thane cluster development scheme, inaugurated in June, represents another notable redevelopment effort in Mumbai. This ambitious project, led by Chief Minister Shinde, aims to revitalize the urban landscape and address housing challenges.

With a comprehensive approach encompassing multiple projects, the Thane cluster development scheme seeks to enhance the quality of life for residents of deteriorated buildings.

4. Virar-Alibaug Multi-Modal Corridor

The Virar-Alibaug multi-modal corridor, spanning 126 km from Navghar in Virar to Chirner in Uran, emerges as a crucial route connecting key national highways, airports, and ports.

Designed to accommodate various modes of transportation, including rapid bus transit and metro rail, the corridor will significantly reduce traffic congestion and enhance connectivity.

Comprising two phases, the project is projected to cost approximately Rs 40,000 crore and aims for completion by 2026.

5. Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train

The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) represents a landmark initiative as India’s first high-speed rail project.

Envisioned to traverse the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route in just about two hours, the project holds the potential to revolutionize travel between the two major cities.

While challenges, including land acquisition delays and the impact of COVID-19, hindered progress, the Shinde government’s decisive actions have expedited approvals and propelled the project forward.

The first trial run of the project, scheduled for August 2026, marks a significant milestone on the path to transforming travel and connectivity.

Conclusion

In addition to these key projects, the Maharashtra government has achieved remarkable progress in several other significant initiatives, illustrating a commitment to transforming infrastructure and driving economic growth in the region.