The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has formally approached the state government to secure control over government-owned land parcels, signalling a potential shift in the way public land could be leveraged to fund large-scale infrastructure projects. The proposal, still pending approval, envisions developing and monetising collector-owned land through leasing, a move aimed at strengthening the authority’s financial capacity while protecting these assets from encroachment and legal disputes.
MMRDA’s 2026–27 budget reflects an ambitious push for urban development, with nearly 87% of the allocated Rs 48,072 crore earmarked for infrastructure projects across the metropolitan region. Officials project that land monetisation could generate upwards of Rs 11,177 crore, tapping into key zones such as Bandra-Kurla Complex, Wadala, Oshiwara, Thane, and the Karnala–Chirner region. Experts note that leveraging state-owned land for planned development could provide MMRDA with predictable revenue streams crucial for timely project execution. A senior planning official highlighted that many government land parcels are currently encumbered by legal disputes and unauthorised occupation. Granting MMRDA development rights would allow systematic planning and better protection of these areas, enabling the authority to integrate land use with broader urban infrastructure plans. “Controlled development ensures that land assets contribute to sustainable urban growth while minimising encroachments,” the official added.
The authority’s jurisdiction spans 6,328 square kilometres, encompassing nine municipal corporations, nine municipal councils, a nagar panchayat, and over 1,000 villages in Thane, Raigad, and Palghar districts. With a population of over 23 million residents, effective management of land and infrastructure assets remains critical to supporting the region’s growing mobility, housing, and commercial needs. Beyond conventional land parcels, MMRDA is also exploring metro depots as a potential revenue model. Preliminary studies have examined the possibility of utilising Floor Space Index (FSI) at depot sites to allow integrated development, similar to monetisation practices implemented in other Indian cities. Urban planners suggest that such a model could simultaneously improve metro infrastructure efficiency while generating additional funds for expansion projects.
Industry analysts view MMRDA’s dual approach—land parcel development and depot monetisation—as a strategic response to the fiscal pressures of urban infrastructure delivery. By creating long-term revenue sources, the authority could reduce reliance on state and central budget allocations, enabling more timely completion of metro corridors, expressways, and public transit hubs. The state government’s approval remains a prerequisite, but if granted, the proposal could transform how public land contributes to urban development, balancing revenue generation with sustainable planning. Observers note that success will depend on transparent implementation, adherence to zoning regulations, and integration with inclusive city planning goals.
MMRDA Seeks Land Rights To Boost Regional Projects
