The Maharashtra state government is set to launch a major environmental overhaul for the financial capital under the newly announced 'Green Mumbai' initiative. This comprehensive strategy aims to fundamentally transform the city through climate-conscious governance and large-scale green infrastructure projects.
Sustainable Mobility and Clean Air at the Core
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed officials to ensure the programme sharply focuses on sustainable mobility and air quality improvement. A key part of this push is the aggressive expansion of Mumbai's mass transit system. Officials confirmed that several existing and upcoming infrastructure projects will be integrated into this green vision.
"Every Mumbaikar deserves clean air," CM Fadnavis told TOI. "We are enforcing strict accountability by monitoring over 1,000 construction sites in real time and modernising local industries with clean fuel. By tackling pollution at its source, we are ensuring that Mumbai's rapid growth does not come at the cost of its citizens' health."
Metro and Electric Buses to Slash Emissions
The initiative is already showing tangible results in reducing traffic congestion. According to traffic police surveys, there has been a 30% drop in congestion at major hubs since the launch of new metro lines. However, the government states this is just the beginning of a much larger transformation.
"We are building a Mumbai that moves faster and breathes easier," said Fadnavis. "We are aggressively executing a comprehensive 411 km metro network. Anchored by our 33.5 km underground Aqua Line and combined with our fleet of 5,000 electric buses, we are permanently removing 4.5 lakh vehicle trips daily and eliminating 2.6 lakh tonnes of CO₂ annually. Progress and the planet must thrive together."
Pioneering Climate Budgeting in South Asia
In a groundbreaking move, Mumbai is institutionalising 'Climate Budgeting' as a mandatory annual process, becoming the first city in South Asia to do so. This financial commitment anchors the entire Green Mumbai plan.
"Mumbai is pioneering 'Climate Budgeting' in South Asia," the Chief Minister explained. "By committing over Rs 17,000 crore—nearly 38% of the BMC's capital expenditure—to green initiatives, we made environmental protection a core financial priority. This is not just expenditure; it is our concrete roadmap to Net Zero 2050, ensuring that our financial planning secures our future."
This massive financial allocation underscores the state's commitment to making long-term, accountable investments in climate action. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) will have a significant focus on air quality and pollution control as part of this budget-led approach. The ultimate goal is to steer Mumbai towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions by the year 2050.
