The state government has concluded the formulation of a comprehensive proposal for the development of a new city named the 'Third Mumbai.' This initiative is driven by the objective of addressing the increasing population in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) by enhancing housing, and infrastructure, and establishing robust transportation facilities

This new city will be intricately connected to Mumbai via the pivotal Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu, commonly known as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL). In the process of reshaping the far ends of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is anticipated to spearhead the initiative.

To facilitate this, the New Town Development Authority (NTDA) has been established. Covering an expansive area of 323 sq. kms, NTDA's jurisdiction will include parts of Ulwe, Pen, Panvel, Uran, Karjat, and surrounding regions.

Under NTDA's jurisdiction, approximately 200 villages, including 80-90 villages falling within the Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA), are expected to be incorporated. This development signifies a strategic move to address urbanization needs and infrastructure enhancement in the extended Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

"We are referring to it as the Third Mumbai, which will encompass essential infrastructure akin to a well-developed city. This includes residential areas catering to luxury and affordability, commercial complexes, data centers, hubs for multinational corporations, banks, and financial companies, along with extensive knowledge parks. The development will also entail the establishment of a robust public transportation system," stated a government official.

The proposed Third Mumbai aims to boost economic activity and contribute significantly to the country's GDP. A second Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) is planned for Kharghar, utilizing approximately 150 hectares of land to create a dedicated commercial zone enticing both Indian and multinational companies.

The government envisions the development of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) as a potential USD 0.25 trillion economy, with Mumbai covering around 600 sq kms, Navi Mumbai spanning 344 sq kms, and Naina encompassing 370 sq kms, including 174 villages.

The MMRDA and NITI Aayog aim to boost Mumbai's GDP from $140 billion to $300 billion by 2030, with the Third Mumbai playing a key role. The MTHL and Navi Mumbai Airport are expected to contribute 1% to India's GDP. The airport, opening in December, will ease pressure on Mumbai airport and enhance regional connectivity. Developers express concern over affordability in new areas like Naina due to high development charges.

AV Shenoy urges MMRDA to focus on MMR development. Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation is constructing a ₹812 crore Panvel-Karjat suburban rail corridor, targeting completion by December 2025. The project features tunnels, flyovers, and stations at Panvel, Chikhale, Mohape, Chowk, and Karjat. Acquisition of 57 hectares of private land and 4.4 hectares of government land is in progress, awaiting permissions for 9.13 hectares of forest land. The corridor connects Navi Mumbai with Raigad district, facilitating local trains between Mumbai and Karjat via Panvel.

Image source: WION