By Kavita Mistry 
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train will be ready by 2028. Built in collaboration with Japan at a cost of USD 15 billion, the project had faced delays during the previous government’s tenure. However, Fadnavis emphasized that construction is now in full swing, even though Gujarat is currently ahead of Maharashtra in project execution.
Major Infrastructure Push: Ports, Airports, and Highways
Fadnavis shared Maharashtra’s ambitious plan to attract USD 50 billion from global financiers for new infrastructure development. Highlighting key projects, he said the Vadhavan port, being constructed on reclaimed land, will become operational in 3-4 years. The port aims to reduce logistics costs and will feature an adjoining airport built through land reclamation over the sea, a model seen in many global cities.
The Vadhavan port will also serve as a halt for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train, enhancing multi-modal connectivity for the region.
Connecting Maharashtra’s Heartland
To ensure deeper regional connectivity, the state is building a new highway from Nashik to Vadhavan port. This critical corridor will link 17 districts to the upcoming port, boosting trade and regional development.
Additionally, the Shaktipeeth Highway, connecting Nagpur to Goa, will pass through economically backward regions, helping spur growth and create new opportunities.
Maharashtra’s Strategic Role In IMEEC
Speaking at an event organized by VRF on the India-Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), Fadnavis assured that Mumbai and Maharashtra will play a vital role in the success of this mega project. He pledged that the state government will create the necessary facilitating ecosystem to integrate seamlessly with global trade routes.
At the same event, Sanjeev Krishan, Chairperson of PwC India, noted that IMEEC, when combined with existing trade routes, will significantly boost the global economy.
With the bullet train, new ports, highways, and major international projects in the pipeline, Maharashtra is gearing up for a major transformation in infrastructure and economic growth.