Mumbai Metropolitan Region – A Fast-Growing Hub of Economic Opportunities and Climate Vulnerabilities

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), spanning 6,328 sq. km, is undergoing a radical structural transformation driven by unprecedented infrastructural investments. The rapid expansion of the metro network, expressways, freeways, coastal roads and sea links, alongside upgraded ports and airports, will enhance regional connectivity and unlock new growth corridors across Palghar, Thane and Raigad districts. The initiation of the 3rd and 4th Mumbai, as planned greenfield cities, coupled with cluster-based redevelopment and large-scale slum rehabilitation initiatives is further reshaping the region’s urban form and economic trajectory. 

Yet this rapid growth is unfolding alongside escalating climate risks including sea‑level rise, coastal erosion, increased urban flooding, rising heat and deteriorating air quality. The city of Mumbai, which forms the core of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, has gone through much of this transformation over the past couple of decades. Even as Mumbai city developed, several negative externalities have emerged since that cannot be overlooked. As per the Mumbai Climate Action Plan -  

As MMR aligns itself with the vision of achieving a trillion-dollar economy by 2030, it is imperative that this transformation be anchored in low-carbon development pathways. Integrating climate resilience, resource efficiency, and sustainability, into the planning and implementation frameworks of the proposed greenfield cities will be critical to ensuring efficient, resilient and inclusive development that is also future-ready.  

This is an opportune moment to deliberate on the efficiency and productivity gains, as well as impacts, of large infrastructure investments. Can we look at mega- projects through the lens of resilience and the environment to make the MMR more liveable for all? 

Written by Dhawal Ashar, Head of Integrated Transport and Mukta Salunkhe, Senior Program Associate at WRI India.