Mumbai infrastructure projects aim for one-hour regional travel

Maharashtra officials have announced major infrastructure upgrades for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) to enable travel across the area within one hour. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde highlighted ongoing projects, including the 701-kilometer Samruddhi Mahamarg, which has reduced travel time between Mumbai and Nagpur and spurred industrial growth along its route.

To modernize the Mumbai suburban railway, approximately 18,000 crore rupees are being invested. The goal is to increase the daily frequency of local trains from 3,200 to 3,500 by 2030 using advanced technology.

In coordination with the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) has extended the operating hours of Metro Line-3 (Aqua Line) from September 14 to September 25, 2026. Services will run until midnight from both Cuffe Parade and Aarey JVLR terminals to accommodate devotees. Additionally, passengers are permitted to carry eco-friendly Ganesh idols up to 18 inches (45 centimeters) on the metro.