The long-awaited Navi Mumbai International Airport is expected to commence operations in September with its first phase nearly 95 percent complete, according to state officials. The launch, originally targeted for August, has been delayed slightly but remains on track to mark a major leap in Maharashtra’s infrastructure landscape. Government authorities confirmed that the airport’s initial operations will begin with limited capacity, with full-scale services to follow in a phased rollout. The development is set to significantly reduce congestion at the existing Mumbai International Airport and is projected to become a key regional aviation hub.
The update was part of a broader investment debate in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, where the state’s commitment to infrastructure-led economic growth was outlined. Officials highlighted that 87 percent of the Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed with companies have translated into on-ground projects—a conversion rate deemed the highest in the country. In the past three years, Maharashtra has signed MoUs worth ₹1.80 lakh crore, ₹7 lakh crore, and ₹15.72 lakh crore respectively. Of the 46 participating firms, 15 have been allotted land, while allocation for another seven is underway. Around four new industrial units are expected to begin production shortly, reinforcing the state’s drive toward industrial expansion and employment generation.
Beyond urban centres, authorities pointed to emerging industrial nodes like Gadchiroli, which is being shaped into a steel manufacturing hub with ₹1 lakh crore in planned investments. Additionally, more than 62,000 micro and small enterprises have been set up under the Chief Minister’s Employment Guarantee Scheme—reportedly six times higher than during the previous government’s tenure. Officials also asserted Maharashtra’s leadership in implementing the Centre’s Vishwakarma scheme, which supports artisans and skilled tradespeople. Meanwhile, on civic finances, state representatives addressed concerns over Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s rising liabilities, stating the increase to ₹2.32 lakh crore was not linked to mismanagement.
The scheduled operationalisation of Navi Mumbai International Airport symbolises Maharashtra’s larger ambition—strengthening connectivity while catalysing inclusive and sustainable urban development across the state.
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