The Maharashtra state government has taken a significant step toward establishing a unified transport authority for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
Currently, multiple transport services operate independently, including Mumbai’s BEST, Navi Mumbai’s NMMT, Thane’s TMT, Kalyan-Dombivli’s KDMT, and Vasai-Virar’s transport services. However, the Urban Development Department has proposed integrating these services under a single authority.
To explore this possibility, the government has formed a committee of senior officials, who have been given two months to submit their report. The committee includes BEST’s General Manager Ashwini Joshi, Navi Mumbai Municipal Commissioner Kailas Shinde, Thane Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao, and Mumbai Municipal Corporation’s Additional Commissioner Abhijit Bangar.
Rapid Urbanization Need a Unified Transport System
“The system will be effective only if commuters can travel directly between cities like Mumbai, Kalyan, and Panvel without needing multiple transfers.”
Jitendra Gupta, Mumbai Transport Issues Expert
The MMR is witnessing rapid urbanization, with growing residential and industrial developments in areas like Thane, Navi Mumbai, Kalyan-Dombivli, Ambarnath-Badlapur, and Panvel. Additionally, Vasai-Virar and Palghar are experiencing industrial growth. With major projects such as the Navi Mumbai International Airport, Atal Setu, and the proposed “Third Mumbai” in Uran-Dronagiri, the demand for an efficient and well-coordinated transport system is increasing.
The committee will analyze whether a single transport authority can effectively manage and regulate all transport services in the region. Their report will be submitted to the state government for further action.
Aims to Improve Connectivity and Better Control
The proposed transport authority aims to improve connectivity between all cities within the MMR. By coordinating efforts between MMRDA, municipal corporations, and traffic police, the goal is to create a seamless and efficient transportation network for commuters. The committee will also examine whether the new authority should be given statutory powers and how it should function.
Why the Need for a Unified Transport System?
Currently, transport services in Vasai-Virar are inadequate, and Ulhasnagar’s transport system exists only on paper. Panvel has recently appointed a consultant for its bus service, while Bhiwandi is experiencing rapid expansion due to warehouses and new residential projects in Upper Thane. Additionally, the “Third Mumbai” is being planned within the MMR.
This will make bus services from the railway metro station to the inner-city areas more profitable in the future. Therefore, the idea of integrated transportation for Greater Mumbai has come forward.
Jitendra Gupta, Transport expert and activist welcomed the government’s proposal but emphasized that it would be beneficial for the public only if it ensures inter-town connectivity. “The system will be effective only if commuters can travel directly between cities like Mumbai, Kalyan, and Panvel without needing multiple transfers,” he stated.
