Mr Rahul Asthana appointed as Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA

“Expediting transport and infrastructure projects is the top priority,” says Mr Asthana while addressing the MMRDA officials
Mumbai March 10, 2011: Mr Rahul Asthana, an IAS officer of 1978 batch, Maharashtra cadre has been appointed as the Metropolitan Commissioner, Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) on Thursday. Mr Asthana took over the charge today and addressed the key officials of the Authority.
Mr Asthana said while taking over the charge, “I am familiar with the achievements of MMRDA and I am also aware of the challenges before it. I have already set my priorities at the office. Expediting the ongoing crucial mass transit projects like, Metro rail, Monorail and other road transport projects need urgent attention as most of the projects are near the completion stage. Besides, I also have to put other planned projects into implementation phase and focus at holistic growth and development of the region”
No sooner Mr Asthana took charge of the office held a meeting with all top officials of MMRDA. He also received brief on various aspects of projects, operation and administration from Mr S V R Srinivas, Additional Metropolitan Commissioner. Mr Srinivas was holding the charge following the last Metropolitan Commissioner Mr Ratnakar Gaikwad’s appointment as the Chief Secretary, Government of Maharashtra, earlier this year. Ms Ashwini Bhide, Additional metropolitan Commissioner also greeted and briefed Mr Asthana along with other officials at the office.
Mr Asthana expressed, “It is my pleasure and privilege while holding this dynamic and challenging office which is responsible for the development of such a large region earmarked under special planning in the State. This is not one man’s job and along with all officials of MMRDA, I would need the kind support of people of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. We all envisage to turn this region into the most developed and fastest growing not only in country but globally.”
Graduate of Aeronautics Engineer, Mr Asthana was holding the post of Chairman at Mumbai Port Trust, Department of Shipping, since October 2008 before joining MMRDA.