From Mumbai to MMR: The Evolution of the City and Its Suburbs
Explore the fascinating journey of Mumbai's growth, from a small 16 km stretch to the expansive Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), and discover how the city's suburbs and exurbs have transformed over the years.
MumbaiMmrReal EstateUrbanisationSuburbsReal Estate PuneFeb 28, 2025
He rubbed his eyes and read it again.
There was no printing mistake, but when he went to the address, located somewhere beyond Mumbai, he discovered that the ad about real estate was not real.
While trundling back home dejected, wondering what one could get for Rs.50/- in Mumbai, he came across a fruit vendor who was selling a watermelon for that amount.
He purchased it and brought it home, but on cutting open the watermelon, out came a genie who offered to fulfill his wishes.
The man immediately wished to have an ownership house in Mumbai.
The genie smiled and with a wistful expression replied that if fulfilling that wish were possible, why would he himself have been residing inside a watermelon all these years!
There is an oft-repeated phrase – Mumbai is bursting at its seams.
However, the seam has been seamlessly extending, and hence it is difficult to ascertain precisely where the seam is.
From Mumbai to Greater Mumbai, and then Thane District, Navi Mumbai, Panvel, Kalyan, Karjat, and extending beyond Virar, what is the real Mumbai? From Mumbai to MMR, the city's boundaries have been continuously expanding.
Mumbai’s sustained evolution and significant growth continue to amaze one and all.
The original 16 km length (Colaba to Mahim, Colaba to Maheshwari Udyan) increased by about two-and-a-half times to a 40 km length (Colaba to Dahisar, Colaba to Mulund) to incorporate the suburbs.
Now, as the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), it has a typical length of 120 km, a three-fold increase from the suburbs stage size (Colaba to Palghar, Colaba to Raigad) to incorporate the extended suburbs or exurbs as well.
While there has been substantial residential and commercial development in the city itself due to its economic opportunities, several suburbs and exurbs within the MMR have also witnessed rapid urbanisation and real estate development.
The interesting trend has been the opportunity to further transform the existing, already established suburbs through new development, redevelopment, and mixed-use development.
The writer is a Corporate Trainer, Communication & Marketing Consultant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MMR?
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) is an expansive urban agglomeration that includes the city of Mumbai and its surrounding suburbs and exurbs. It is one of the most populous and economically significant regions in India.
How has Mumbai's size changed over the years?
Mumbai's size has increased from a 16 km stretch (Colaba to Mahim) to a 40 km length (Colaba to Dahisar) and now extends to a 120 km length as the MMR, incorporating areas like Thane, Navi Mumbai, and Raigad.
Why is Mumbai often described as 'bursting at its seams'?
This phrase describes the rapid population growth and urban expansion of Mumbai, which has led to increased pressure on infrastructure and resources, making it difficult to manage the city's growth.
What are the key features of new development in MMR?
New development in MMR includes the transformation of existing suburbs through new residential and commercial projects, mixed-use developments, and urbanization of exurban areas.
What role does economic opportunity play in MMR's growth?
Economic opportunities, such as job availability and business potential, have been a major driving force behind the urbanization and real estate development in MMR, attracting people from various parts of the country.
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