Survey To Start in Early 2025 to Develop ‘Third Mumbai’
In early 2025, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) will start comprehensive surveys. These surveys aim to develop the Karnala-Sai-Chirner New Town (KSC New Town). It was previously known as Third Mumbai. This ambitious project aims to enhance connectivity. It will also reduce travel time between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. KSC New Town is positioned as a significant technological hub within the region.
The development process will commence with drone-based assessments, followed by detailed analyses utilizing Lidar technology. These advanced surveying techniques will cover approximately 323.44 square kilometers, encompassing 124 villages in Raigad district. The diverse terrain includes hills, forests, and farmland, necessitating precise and thorough evaluations. MMRDA plans to appoint consultants. They will conduct aerial surveys and perform ground verifications. They will also collect land ownership data to culminate in the creation of a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based map.
A private entity will be engaged in addition to the surveys. It will develop a vision document, a comprehensive master plan, and a detailed development strategy for KSC New Town. The master plan is slated for completion by August 2026. The initial aerial and ground studies are expected to span six to eight months. This strategic approach highlights the Maharashtra government’s dedication to structured urban development. It also emphasizes their commitment to economic growth within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
KSC New Town is integral to Maharashtra’s roadmap. This plan aims to elevate the MMR’s GDP to $300 billion by 2029. It aligns with NITI Aayog’s vision for India’s economic expansion. The MMRDA collaborated with the World Economic Forum, formalizing this through a Memorandum of Understanding in September. Their collaboration aims to drive economic growth. It also seeks to establish KSC New Town as a pivotal tech hub. Notably, 65% of the nation’s data centers are projected to be located within this new town. This projection highlights its significance in India’s digital infrastructure landscape.
The development of KSC New Town is poised to significantly improve connectivity between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. The project’s strategic location will reduce travel time. Planned infrastructure enhancements will facilitate seamless movement between these major urban centers. This improved connectivity is anticipated to attract businesses and residents alike, contributing to the region’s overall economic vitality.
Given that nearly half of the land designated for KSC New Town comprises hills, forests, and farmland, the MMRDA emphasizes eco-friendly development practices. The planning process will incorporate sustainable development principles to preserve the natural landscape while accommodating urban growth. This approach aims to balance environmental conservation with the region’s economic and infrastructural development needs.
The project involves 124 villages, and the MMRDA plans to engage with local communities to ensure transparent land acquisition processes. Collecting land ownership data and preparing GIS-based maps are crucial steps in this regard. The MMRDA aims to address community concerns by involving local stakeholders. They want to facilitate a collaborative development process. This process benefits both residents and the broader region.
The initiation of surveys for KSC New Town marks a significant milestone in Maharashtra’s urban development agenda. KSC New Town strategically focuses on enhancing connectivity. It fosters economic growth and establishes a robust technological infrastructure. This sets it to become a cornerstone of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region’s future development. The project emphasizes sustainable and eco-friendly practices. This further underscores its potential to serve as a model for balanced urbanization in India.
