Thane: In a major infrastructure push, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has unveiled an ambitious development roadmap for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The plan comes after the approval of a massive Rs 48,000 crore budget under the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).
The focus is clear: transform Thane into a major transport hub and reshape Kalyan into a modern, future-ready city.
Thane to Become a Major Mobility Centre
A large portion of the funds, estimated between Rs 12,000 crore and Rs 13,000 crore, has been earmarked for Thane. The centrepiece project is the proposed 12-kilometre Thane-Borivali Twin Tunnel, which has received administrative clearance with a projected cost of Rs 18,838 crore. Around Rs 3,000 crore has been allocated for the initial phase in 2026–27.
Officials say this tunnel will significantly cut travel time between the eastern and western suburbs, reducing daily traffic pressure.
Other major projects in Thane include the first phase of the Coastal Road project with Rs 1,025 crore set aside. An elevated road between Anand Nagar and Saket has been sanctioned Rs 880 crore to improve local traffic flow.
In addition, beautification work around Railadevi and Masunda lakes has been planned to improve urban spaces. A new bridge over Kolshet-Kalher Creek, costing Rs 214 crore, is also part of the blueprint.
Kalyan-Dombivli to See Rapid Expansion
The Kalyan-Dombivli belt is expected to witness major changes in the coming years. To tackle congestion, Rs 600 crore has been allocated for the Kalyan Ring Road project.
Metro connectivity is another big focus. Metro Line 5 between Bhiwandi and Kalyan, an extension known as Metro 5A towards Ulhasnagar, and Metro Line 14 connecting Kanjurmarg to Badlapur are expected to strengthen public transport in the region. Officials said Metro Line 5, Line 5A and Line 14 are currently at different stages of execution, with phased commissioning expected over the next few years, subject to construction progress and statutory clearances.
With these additions, Kalyan could emerge as a key transit and residential hub within the broader Mumbai region.
Preparing for Future Growth
According to Shinde, the aim of these projects is not just to solve current traffic problems but to prepare the region for long-term urban growth. Rapid population increase and housing expansion have created urgent infrastructure needs.
Authorities believe that better roads, metro lines and connectivity projects will improve daily travel, reduce pollution and support economic activity.
