Maharashtra's Monumental Metro and Infrastructure Expansion

In a landmark financial move, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, declared the approval of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority's (MMRDA) substantial Rs. 48,000 crore budget. This unprecedented surplus—the first since 2017-18—earmarks a significant 75% towards the development of Metro systems and road flyovers. According to Shinde, these investments are pivotal to fulfilling Prime Minister Modi's vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047.

Looking to the future, Deputy CM Shinde highlighted the strategic development of two new dams, Poshir and Shillar, with a focus on pro-environmental growth. Emphasizing infrastructure, job creation, and environmental sustainability, Shinde indicated that plans are underway for comprehensive traffic and drinking water solutions. The MMRDA has allocated Rs. 500 crore specifically for the Kalu Dam project, promising significant relief and benefits to Mumbai residents.

Meanwhile, at the World Economic Forum Annual Summit 2026 in Davos, MMRDA achieved a breakthrough by securing USD 96 billion through the signing of 10 major Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). These agreements, witnessed by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, span diverse sectors including infrastructure, digital ecosystems, and advanced urban technologies and are set to generate approximately 9.6 lakh jobs, reinforcing Mumbai Metropolitan Region's status as a burgeoning talent hub.