Mumbai: In a significant step towards strengthening Mumbai’s metro infrastructure, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UK government to accelerate the growth of the city’s metro network. The agreement, facilitated by the UK’s Department for Transport (DfT) and Crossrail International (CI), was formalized at the World Economic Forum meeting in Davos.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Devendra Fadnavis, Maharashtra Chief Minister; Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister; IAS Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, Metropolitan Commissioner; Jonathan Reynolds, UK Business and Trade Secretary; and Paul Dyson, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Crossrail International.
Enhancing Mumbai’s Transport Infrastructure
The MoU focuses on creating a world-class, integrated transport system, ensuring seamless intermodal connectivity, and improving first- and last-mile access in Mumbai. The partnership also aims to introduce digital transformation in the sector and foster knowledge exchange between India and the UK.
Key Focus Areas of the MoU are:
- Metro Expansion – Fast-tracking the development of Mumbai’s 14-line metro network to enhance intermodal connectivity.
- Sustainable Funding – Introducing Land Value Capture and Transit-Oriented Development as innovative financing models.
- Global Expertise – Collaboration with UK institutions like Transport for London (TfL) and Network Rail to ensure world-class execution.
- Knowledge Exchange – Encouraging academic partnerships between Indian and UK institutions to drive research and innovation.
Current Mumbai Metro Network Developments
MMRDA is currently working on a 337-km metro network, with around 59 km already operational, including sections of underground metro. The partnership with the UK government is expected to significantly enhance Mumbai’s public transport system and contribute to a sustainable urban future.
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