Maharashtra Unveils First City of ‘Third Mumbai’
Maharashtra has taken a major step towards reshaping its urban and economic landscape. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the state will develop the Raigad–Pen Growth Centre as the first city under the ambitious “Third Mumbai” vision. The proposed development will function as a modern business district, inspired by Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex, one of India’s most successful commercial hubs.
The announcement was made during the World Economic Forum meeting in Davos, Switzerland, where Maharashtra has drawn strong global attention for its investment-friendly policies and large-scale infrastructure plans.
What Is the Raigad–Pen Growth Centre?
A New Business Hub Near Navi Mumbai Airport
The Raigad–Pen Growth Centre will be located around 15 to 20 kilometres from the Navi Mumbai International Airport, which was inaugurated on December 25, 2025. This strategic location places the new business city close to a major global aviation gateway, significantly improving connectivity for businesses and investors.
According to the chief minister, the project had been under planning and approvals for the last three to four years. With all key permissions now in place, the state has formally announced the launch of the first city under the Third Mumbai plan.
Why ‘Third Mumbai’ Matters
Easing Pressure on Mumbai and Navi Mumbai
Mumbai and Navi Mumbai have long faced challenges such as overcrowding, rising real estate prices, traffic congestion, and limited space for new commercial development. The idea behind Third Mumbai is to create a new urban growth corridor that can absorb future population growth and economic activity.
The Raigad–Pen Growth Centre is expected to reduce pressure on existing cities while offering world-class infrastructure, better planning, and modern work-life facilities.
Connectivity Boost Through Atal Setu
Seamless Access to the New City
One of the key advantages of the Raigad–Pen Growth Centre is its connectivity. The Atal Setu sea bridge will play a crucial role in linking Mumbai and Navi Mumbai with the new business district. This improved access is expected to significantly cut travel time and make daily commuting easier for professionals.
Combined with the international airport and upcoming transport projects, the growth centre is positioned to become one of the best-connected commercial zones in the region.
Plug-and-Play Model for Faster Growth
Ready-to-Start Infrastructure for Businesses
The new business district will follow a plug-and-play and ready-to-start development model. This means companies will not have to wait years for basic infrastructure to be completed. Offices, utilities, digital connectivity, and support services will be available from the start.
This approach is designed to attract global companies looking to set up operations quickly, especially in sectors like technology, finance, logistics, and advanced manufacturing.
Focus on Fintech and Global Capability Centres
Building a Future-Ready Economy
The Raigad–Pen Growth Centre will focus heavily on global capability centres and a strong fintech ecosystem. These sectors are seen as major job creators and drivers of high-value economic growth.
By encouraging innovation-driven industries, Maharashtra aims to position the new city as a global destination for digital services, financial technology, research, and development.
India’s First PPP-Driven Mega Business City
Government and Private Sector Working Together
The project will be developed under a Public-Private Partnership model, making it the first of its kind at this scale in the country. The Maharashtra government, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority, and private partners will jointly develop the city.
This model allows the government to leverage private sector expertise and investment while ensuring strong regulatory oversight and long-term planning.
Massive Investment Response After Announcement
MoUs Worth Around Rs 1 Lakh Crore Signed
Following the announcement, Maharashtra received an overwhelming response from global investors. Memorandums of Understanding worth approximately Rs 1 lakh crore have already been signed.
Leading companies from across the world have shown interest, including firms from South Korea, Switzerland, the United States, Finland, Dubai, Singapore, and Europe. These investments are expected to help build a high-quality, globally competitive city.
Walk-to-Work City Concept
Redefining Urban Living
One of the most attractive features of the Raigad–Pen Growth Centre is its walk-to-work design. The city will be planned in a way that reduces long commutes by integrating workplaces, housing, and social infrastructure.
This concept not only improves quality of life but also reduces traffic congestion and environmental impact, aligning with global best practices in sustainable urban development.
Knowledge and Technology Partnerships
Global Universities and Institutions Join Hands
Alongside investment agreements, the Maharashtra government has also signed several strategic technical cooperation agreements. These partnerships involve leading global institutions focused on urban planning, transport, sustainability, and technology.
Collaborations with universities and research institutes from the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Singapore, and Norway aim to bring global expertise into city planning and industrial development.
According to the chief minister, these partnerships will help Maharashtra build cities that are technologically advanced, environmentally responsible, and globally competitive.
Green Industrial Corridor Plans
Talks With the World Bank
During the Davos meet, Fadnavis also held discussions with World Bank President Ajay Banga regarding the creation of a Green Industrial Corridor in Maharashtra. This initiative is expected to promote sustainable manufacturing, attract foreign investment, and strengthen the MSME sector.
The proposed corridor could play a major role in boosting exports while ensuring that industrial growth aligns with environmental goals.
Strong Push for Electric Mobility
Global Interest in Maharashtra’s EV Policy
The chief minister also met senior leaders from global automotive and financial institutions. Hyundai’s leadership praised Maharashtra’s electric vehicle policy and announced plans to launch five new EV models in the near future.
Japan’s international cooperation bank highlighted opportunities in electric buses and urban mobility projects, while Finland expressed interest in collaborating on circular economy initiatives.
Solar Energy and Clean Power Leadership
Asia’s Largest Decentralized Solar Programme
Fadnavis highlighted that Maharashtra has implemented Asia’s largest decentralized solar energy programme. By the end of this year, the state is expected to generate 16 gigawatts of electricity through solar power.
This focus on clean energy strengthens Maharashtra’s position as a leader in sustainable development and green investment.
Adani Group’s Rs 6 Lakh Crore Investment Plan
One of the Largest State-Focused Commitments
One of the biggest announcements at Davos came from the Adani Group, which outlined a $66 billion investment plan for Maharashtra over the next decade. The investments will span aviation, clean energy, digital infrastructure, urban development, and advanced manufacturing.
The roadmap reflects a long-term vision to build integrated infrastructure platforms that support economic growth, job creation, and energy transition.
A Turning Point for Maharashtra’s Urban Future
Third Mumbai as a Growth Engine
The announcement of the Raigad–Pen Growth Centre marks a turning point in Maharashtra’s development strategy. By combining global investment, modern urban planning, sustainability, and strong connectivity, the state is laying the foundation for a new economic powerhouse.
As plans move from paper to execution, the first city of Third Mumbai could redefine how India builds its next generation of business districts.
