Mumbai: With a focus on speedy implementation of infrastructure projects to enhance urban mobility across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde on Friday approved the Rs 40,187 crore budget presented by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) for 2025-26. Nearly 87% of the budget was earmarked for infrastructure development, including Metro rail expansion, coastal connectivity, and new tunnels.
MMRDA metropolitan commissioner Sanjay Mukherjee presented the budget, which estimates revenue at Rs 36,938 crore, leaving a deficit of Rs 3,248 crore. The shortfall is expected to be covered through land sales, bonds, govt support, and financial institution loans.
A significant portion of the budget was allocated to Metro rail projects, with Rs 3,247 crore set aside for Metro 4 (Wadala-Kasarvadavali), Rs 2,155 crore for Metro 2B (DN Nagar-Mandale), and Rs 1,579 crore for Metro 5 (Thane-Kalyan).
The much-anticipated Thane-Borivali underground tunnel was allocated Rs 2,684 crore, while Rs 1,813 crore was set aside for the underground coastal tunnel linking Orange Gate on the Eastern Freeway to Marine Drive. The Uttan-Virar Coastal Road received Rs 2,000 crore.
The budget also prioritised regional water supply projects, with Rs 1,645 crore earmarked for the Surya, Kalu, and Dherji projects. Infrastructure development in areas such as Thane, Vasai-Virar, Mira-Bhayandar, and Alibaug was also included, with provisions for new bridges, roads, and railway overbridges.
Shinde, who is also MMRDA chairman, said the budget aims to ensure balanced growth across the region. “Our top priority is the all-round and fast-paced development of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. This budget ensures inclusive progress across all sectors — from new Metro corridors to water resource projects. MMRDA’s plans will position Mumbai as a global economic hub. The 2025–26 budget is a visionary and comprehensive document for the multidimensional growth of MMR,” he said.
Calling the MMR the backbone of Maharashtra’s economic development, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said, “The ongoing infrastructure projects across MMR are accelerating the state’s growth trajectory. Maharashtra signed a total of 54 MoUs worth Rs 15.7 lakh crore at Davos. Of these, MMRDA signed 11 MoUs amounting to Rs 3.5 lakh crore…This budget marks a crucial step toward achieving the vision of a trillion-dollar economy.”
Terming the budget a “future-ready financial plan,” Mukherjee said: “Over Rs 35,000 crore was directly allocated for projects. From Metro expansions and underground tunnels to water resource development and economic hubs, these initiatives are vital for MMR’s growth. This is not just a financial document — it is the blueprint for MMR’s future.”