Revitalization Plans Approved for Marina, Beaches, and Link Roads at Backbay Reclamation
The Backbay Reclamation area in Mumbai is set to undergo a major transformation with the approval of an extensive development plan by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The proposal, which encompasses plans for a marina, beaches, a new legislative building, and residential and commercial zones, was given the green light during a meeting of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) chaired by Shinde.
The revised draft development plan for the Backbay Reclamation Scheme (Blocks III to VI) takes into consideration ongoing projects by various organizations in the area, including slum rehabilitation and metro initiatives. The plan aims to divide the area into residential and commercial zones while preserving natural features such as beaches and mangroves.
Marina, Beaches, and Link Roads
One of the key highlights of the development plan is the expansion of the New Legislative Building and the introduction of new link roads, including a proposed connectivity between Netaji Subhashchandra Marg (Marine Drive) and General Jagannath Bhosle Marg. Additionally, a dedicated marina for tourism is proposed, which will include ports for small boats and yachts to enhance tourism in the area.
Furthermore, another significant project that received approval is the preliminary alignment report for an access-controlled highway connecting Kalyan, Dombivli, Ulhasnagar, Ambernath, and Badlapur with Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. This project, estimated at ₹10,833 crore, aims to reduce travel time between these cities and Mumbai to 60 minutes, and to Navi Mumbai to 30 minutes. The highway will provide direct connectivity to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport and NAINA, while also easing congestion in Thane and nearby highways.
The Badlapur to Virar-Alibaug Multimodal Corridor project is another major initiative that will feature an eight-lane divided carriageway with service lanes, designed for speeds of up to 80 kmph. Major interchanges are proposed with key roadways, including the Mumbai-Vadodara Spur, Katai-Badlapur, and the Kalyan Ring Road.
Economic Master Plan and Future Vision
An initial budgetary allocation of up to ₹100 crore was made to kickstart the execution of the Economic Master Plan for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). This comprehensive roadmap, developed collaboratively by NITI Aayog and the Government of Maharashtra, aims to position MMR as a central growth hub in India. A Memorandum of Collaboration was recently signed with the World Economic Forum to further this vision.
The meeting also approved a proposal to allot a plot to the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) in Bandra Kurla Complex, allowing for a built-up area of 5 lakh square feet. Sanjay Mukherjee, Metropolitan Commissioner of MMRDA, emphasized the authority’s vision of creating a balanced approach to growth that integrates infrastructure development, environmental conservation, and the well-being of local communities.
With a focus on enhancing connectivity, promoting economic growth, and ensuring that every project respects the natural and social fabric of the region, the MMRDA is committed to shaping the future of MMR through the revised development plans and major connectivity projects like the Backbay Reclamation and the access-controlled highway.
In conclusion, the approval of the revitalization plans for the Marina, Beaches, and Link Roads at Backbay Reclamation marks a significant step towards transforming the area into a vibrant and sustainable urban hub. With a strategic focus on infrastructure development and environmental conservation, these initiatives are poised to enhance the quality of life for residents while boosting economic growth and tourism in the region.
