Maharashtra Sets Up Panel for MMR Growth Hub

07 Feb 2025 CW Team

According to a government resolution, Maharashtra has formed a nine-member Project Management Unit (PMU) to implement NITI Aayog’s recommendations for transforming the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) into a $300 billion economy by 2030 from its current $140 billion.

The PMU, led by the additional chief secretary of the housing department, includes officials from transport, planning, urban development, Slum Rehabilitation Authority, Mumbai Port Trust, Konkan division, and a representative from the Institute for Sustainability, Employment and Growth. Its role includes executing NITI Aayog’s proposals, supporting the Growth Hub Regulatory Board and Coordination Committee, and advising the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority on key challenges.

The decision aligns with a recent meeting between NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. A high-level committee, chaired by the Chief Secretary, is already overseeing the report’s execution.

NITI Aayog’s recommendations include promoting MMR as a global services hub, enhancing affordable housing, slum rehabilitation, tourism, logistics, urban planning, and sustainability initiatives. It has proposed tourism hubs in Gorai, Madh, and Alibag, a 300 km coastline master plan, and integrated manufacturing and logistics clusters in Kharbav and Panvel.

With the Rs 760 billion Vadhavan port project, NITI Aayog suggests leveraging it for green hydrogen, steel, chemicals, textiles, and apparel industries.

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