While presenting the additional budget during the monsoon session on Friday, Deputy CM and Finance Minister Ajit Pawar announced that the state government plans to expand the metro network by 37 km in the current financial year.
The Metro 3 project, executed by the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (Phase I) from Aarey to BKC, is nearing completion and will be inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi on July 13. During the inauguration, Modi will also perform the bhoomi poojan for the Vadhavan port, which is expected to create about 10 lakh jobs in the state.
Pawar informed the assembly that 127 km of the 449 km of new metro network sanctioned for Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur is already operational. An additional 37 km will become operational later this financial year.
The MMRDA is expected to complete the Worli-Sewri connector by 2025. This connector will link the Bandra Worli Sealink and coastal road to the MTHL and serve as an important route to the Navi Mumbai International Airport. Currently, 57% of the work is complete.
Pawar also announced Thane’s first coastal road, stretching 13.45 km from Balkum to Gaimukh, at a cost of ₹3,364 crore. This project, anticipated to be finished by May 2028, is expected to alleviate traffic congestion in Thane city.
Additionally, the government plans to construct Unity Mall in Ulwe, Navi Mumbai, which will provide a platform for women self-help groups and artisans to display and sell their products. Currently, these products are marketed through Umed Mart, an e-commerce platform, and exhibitions.
Pawar also revealed plans to establish a gems and jewellery park on a 25-acre plot in Mahape, Navi Mumbai. This park will host 2,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises with an investment of ₹50,000 crore and will generate one lakh jobs.
