Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority Appointed as NTDA
In a recent Government Resolution (GR) issued on October 15, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has been granted the responsibility of being the “New Town Development Authority” (NTDA) for the proposed ‘Third Mumbai.’ The NTDA will oversee the development of this new urban region, situated at the Navi Mumbai end of the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL).
Development Plans and Regulations for ‘Third Mumbai’
Under the new designation, MMRDA has been assigned the task of preparing and publishing detailed Planning Proposals and Development Control & Promotion Regulations for the designated ‘Notified Area.’ This move signifies the government’s commitment to ensuring structured and organized development within the region.
The GR also grants MMRDA the authority to acquire the necessary land within this ‘Notified Area’ and mandates the allocation of adequate funds for the land acquisition process. These measures highlight the government’s determination to facilitate efficient and smooth development in the prescribed area.
The Vision for ‘Third Mumbai’
The proposed ‘Third Mumbai,’ occupying an extensive area of 324 square kilometers, primarily consists of regions within the influence zone of the newly inaugurated MTHL. The strategic decision to establish this new urban region stems from the state government’s recognition of the significant potential for economic development presented by the MTHL.
Efficiently leveraging the benefits expected from the MTHL, the state government aims to drive substantial economic growth and progress by making optimal use of the infrastructure advancements in the region.
A 334 Square Kilometer Urban Expansion
The official appointment of MMRDA as the NTDA, which occurred on December 12, covers a vast 334-square-kilometer area within the MTHL influence zone. This appoints the authority to commence concrete steps towards the development of the ‘Third Mumbai.’
The ‘Third Mumbai’ encompasses 124 villages, distributed across different designated areas. Among them, 80 villages fall under the Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA), 33 villages form part of the Khopta New Town Notified Area, 2 are situated within the Mumbai Metropolitan Regional Plan, and the remaining 9 fall under the Raigad Regional Plan.
Future Progress and Prospects
With the appointment of MMRDA as the NTDA, the wheels of progress are set in motion for the ‘Third Mumbai.’ This new urban region has the potential to be a significant driver for economic development, envisioning the growth and advancement of infrastructure, housing, and other amenities. As the plans and regulations take shape, it is anticipated that this venture will transform the landscape of Navi Mumbai and provide a growth impetus for the region as a whole.
As the government invests resources and expertise into the ‘Third Mumbai’ development, the wider implications for employment generation, improved connectivity, and enhanced quality of life come to the forefront. Looking ahead, stakeholders eagerly anticipate the execution and fruition of these developmental plans, transcending the ‘Third Mumbai’ and taking the city’s progress to new heights.
