Political Will, Japanese Funding, Smart Execution — Fadnavis’ Role For Mumbai’s Infrastructure Growth

As Devendra Fadnavis prepares for the state election this November, one of his key contributions has been expediting multiple key infrastructural projects across Mumbai.

Previously, multiple stalled projects and slow delivery had brought Mumbai infra development to a stall.

During Devendra Fadnavis’ tenure as Chief Minister of Maharashtra, particularly in 2015, he engaged actively with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to secure funds for key projects that were critical to Mumbai’s growth and reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring timely completions.

JICA is known for providing financial and technical assistance for various development projects globally.

His government’s initiative to set up a Japanese Industrial Park in the state also outlines the strategy of attracting Japanese businesses and technology to the region. 

His visits to Japan remained crucial in strengthening partnerships, for the transportation, urban development and healthcare sectors.

Mega infra projects turned around under Fadnavis’s tenure

Mumbai Trans-Harbour Link (MTHL)

The Mumbai Trans-Harbour Link (MTHL) has been a critical project supported by JICA funding of Rs 8,800 crore for a total of Rs 17,843 crore. 

Dormant for 53 years, the Fadnavis war room revived this critical infrastructure endeavour in 2015, obtaining necessary clearances and funding. The project, launched in January 2024, connects Mumbai with Navi Mumbai.

Mumbai Metro Line 3

Fadnavis also confronted challenges associated with the Mumbai Metro Line 3, addressing controversies related to land allocation for its depot. 

This line was the first major project to receive JICA funding, with approvals starting in 2013, and the project received a significant official development assistance (ODA) loan of Rs 2,480 Crore.

Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Project

Another ambitious venture, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Project, was also cleared of hurdles, particularly in 2016, largely due to land acquisition issues and local opposition. 

JICA is financing nearly Rs 88,000 crore of the total project cost of Rs 1,10,000 crore.

In August 2023,  Devendra Fadnavis also visited Japan, to experience travel on the Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto, as the project in India progresses.

Versova-Virar Sea Link Project

During his visit, Fadnavis also garnered enthusiastic support for the Versova-Virar Sea Link Project from the Japanese government and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Water Infrastructure

Over Rs 4,500 crore is allocated for various water supply and sewage projects under JICA’s assistance.

As Mumbai, the country’s economic centre, continues to improve its infrastructure and economy, Fadnavis has strengthened his legacy as the key leader behind this big change.