6 more Navi Mumbai needed by 2031

Mumbai February 10: According to the development plan and projections of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, there would be a population of about 34 million and hence, the region would need at least 6 developed districts like Navi Mumbai by 2031.
Mr G R Madan, Director – MRTS, Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority, at a conference on the infrastructure sector said that the MMR development plan up to 2031 could be the largest development plan in terms of geographical area and comprehension in any country. “We cannot plan for more than 30 years as every region undergoes changes in its demography, technology and hence the infrastructure requirements. By 2031 we would need six more Navi Mumbai to accommodate the estimated population of 34 million.”
He added that the Metro projects are very essential to meet the future demand looking at the need of hour. “Currently, the suburban trains’ coaches are equipped to accommodate 5-6 passengers per square meter. The acceptable limit is up to 8 passengers per square meter and in reality it is operating at over 15 passengers per square meter. We are investing in adding suburban railway capacity under MUTP to reduce the load factor but it cannot serve on other routes than existing ones and cannot provide the much required east-west connectivity. The only solution to this situation is that of the Metro corridors.”
Mr Madan said that the completion of corridor of Metro line, Varsova-Andheri-Ghatkopar, is possible by the November 2011, said. “The 11-km VAG corridor’s work is in full swing. Perhaps it will be completed before end of this year. As per the estimations, about 5 lakh people will be travelling on the VAG metro line. The work is progressing despite severe restrictions in executing the project,” Mr Madan said while addressing at the ‘Conference on Infrastructure Projects in India’ organised by CII and Indian Earthmoving & Construction Industry Association Limited (IECIAL) on Thursday.