Over the last decade, Mumbai has witnessed a significant transformation driven by large-scale investments in infrastructure, housing, and public services. Under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the “Mumbai Transformation” vision focused on easing daily commuting challenges, reducing traffic congestion, and positioning Mumbai as a modern global city—while retaining its central role as India’s financial capital.
The most visible change has come from fast-tracked infrastructure projects that were stalled for years. A coordinated master plan brought together roads, sea links, metro corridors, and airport expansion, addressing both immediate urban problems and Mumbai’s long-term ambition to emerge as a leading financial and technology hub in Asia.
Mumbai has undergone significant infrastructure development over the last decade under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, including projects such as the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (Atal Setu) and the coastal road, with a focus on improving transport, urban spaces, and economic growth.
Connectivity at the Core of Mumbai’s Master PlanTransport has remained the backbone of the Devendra Fadnavis Mumbai master plan. The government prioritised an integrated transport network connecting roads, railways, metro lines, and sea routes. Long-pending projects were cleared, funded, and monitored under strict timelines to ensure on-ground delivery and visible relief for commuters.
The Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, popularly known as Atal Setu, stands as a landmark project. The 21.8-kilometre sea bridge connects Sewri in South Mumbai with Nhava Sheva near Navi Mumbai, offering faster access to Pune and Goa highways. It has reduced pressure on existing road routes and opened new corridors for industrial, commercial, and logistics growth.
On the western coastline, the coastal road project has transformed travel between Nariman Point and the northern suburbs. Designed to ease chronic traffic congestion in South Mumbai, the road allows smoother vehicular movement, reduces travel time, and helps cut fuel consumption and emissions, while incorporating measures to address environmental concerns.
Metro Expansion and Urban Mobility
Metro expansion is another major pillar of Mumbai’s transformation. After years of slow progress, metro projects gained momentum with fresh approvals and funding. Key corridors such as Metro Line 3 (Colaba–Bandra–SEEPZ), along with Metro Lines 2A and 7 in the suburbs, have created high-capacity transit routes across the city.
As these lines became operational, daily ridership rose sharply, easing pressure on the suburban railway network in several stretches. Improved last-mile connectivity around metro stations has also encouraged residential and commercial development nearby, aligning with the principles of transit-oriented development in a densely populated city.
Economic Vision and Global AmbitionsBeyond transport infrastructure, the Fadnavis administration linked urban development with a broader economic strategy. The goal was to strengthen Mumbai’s position as a global financial and fintech hub. Policy measures focused on aviation expansion, digital infrastructure, and support for startups and multinational companies.
The Navi Mumbai International Airport emerged as a crucial project within this vision. With air traffic growing steadily, the second airport became essential to meet future demand. The project has spurred development in Navi Mumbai and Raigad, where new townships, offices, and logistics hubs are creating employment opportunities.
Digital infrastructure also received policy attention. Incentives for data centres and technology parks attracted major global firms, reinforcing Mumbai’s growing reputation as a fintech and digital services hub.
Inclusive Development and Urban RenewalA key objective of the Mumbai master plan was inclusive growth. The government aimed to ensure that development benefits reached all sections of society, not just affluent areas. Large-scale slum rehabilitation, public housing upgrades, and redevelopment of ageing chawls were initiated to provide safer homes and improved living conditions.
The Dharavi redevelopment project stands out as the most ambitious urban renewal effort. One of the world’s largest informal settlements, Dharavi is being redesigned to provide legal housing, upgraded infrastructure, and better workspaces for local industries. Similarly, the redevelopment of BDD chawls focuses on fair rehabilitation for middle-income residents.
Water transport, long underutilised despite Mumbai’s coastline, was also revived. Water taxis and roll-on roll-off ferry services now connect Mumbai with Navi Mumbai and Alibaug, offering alternative travel options, supporting tourism, and easing pressure on roads and suburban trains.
Governance, Sustainability and PlanningTo keep mega projects on schedule, the Fadnavis government established the Chief Minister’s War Room, which coordinated across departments to resolve land, environmental, and administrative hurdles. This governance model helped limit delays and cost overruns.
Environmental sustainability formed an integral part of planning. The city expanded its electric bus fleet, invested in sewage treatment plants, and integrated coastal protection measures into infrastructure design. Vertical development and transit-oriented planning were promoted to manage population growth and land scarcity.
A Changed MumbaiFor many residents, the impact is visible in faster commutes, improved public transport, and renewed urban spaces. Supporters argue that this phase of development reflects a long-term vision aimed at improving quality of life while keeping Mumbai competitive on the global stage.
Today, Mumbai is increasingly seen as more connected, efficient, and inclusive than it was a decade ago. Projects such as Atal Setu, the expanding metro network, the coastal road, and large-scale redevelopment initiatives have reshaped the city’s urban identity. The Mumbai development model under Devendra Fadnavis is now being closely studied by other Indian states.