Mumbai's Urban Planning Crisis: Real Estate Over Infrastructure
Urban researcher Hussain Indorewala discusses the dire state of Mumbai's infrastructure planning, highlighting the city's focus on real estate development at the expense of essential services like transport, sewage, and water supply.
MumbaiUrban PlanningReal EstateInfrastructureFloodingReal EstateJun 06, 2025
He predicts that this kind of flooding will likely occur annually. One reason is the extensive digging for construction activities, which disrupts the natural drainage systems. Additionally, the reduction in open spaces around new constructions exacerbates the problem. The Coastal Road project, which has shut down many water channels, is another contributing factor.
Mumbai needs better governance to address these issues. One proposed solution is to have a directly elected mayor and representatives. “Decision-making now is done by bureaucrats and the state government,” Indorewala points out. This centralized approach often leads to inefficiencies and a lack of accountability.
The need for a more holistic approach to urban planning in Mumbai is urgent. The city’s infrastructure, already strained by rapid urbanization, cannot sustain the current level of neglect. Effective planning must prioritize the needs of the citizens, ensuring that essential services like transportation, sewage management, and water supply are not overlooked in favor of real estate development.
Indorewala’s insights highlight the crucial need for a paradigm shift in how Mumbai approaches urban planning. The city’s future depends on a balanced and inclusive approach that addresses the root causes of its infrastructure challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main reasons for flooding in Mumbai?
The main reasons for flooding in Mumbai include extensive digging for construction activities, reduction in open spaces, and the closure of water channels due to projects like the Coastal Road.
How does real estate development impact Mumbai's infrastructure?
Real estate development in Mumbai often prioritizes profit over essential services, leading to a neglect of infrastructure like transport, sewage, and water supply systems.
What is the proposed solution to improve governance in Mumbai?
One proposed solution is to have a directly elected mayor and representatives to ensure more accountable and efficient decision-making.
Why is better urban planning crucial for Mumbai?
Better urban planning is crucial for Mumbai to address the root causes of its infrastructure challenges and ensure the city's sustainable development and the well-being of its citizens.
How can citizens contribute to improving urban planning in Mumbai?
Citizens can contribute by staying informed, participating in local governance, and advocating for policies that prioritize essential services and sustainable development.
Related News Articles
Maharashtra's Real Estate Market Sees Upsurge in Property Registrations
Maharashtra's real estate market experiences a boost in property registrations and revenue despite unchanged RR rates, indicating a shift towards high-value transactions.
Top Stock Picks for Short-Term Gains: Bajaj Finserv, HDFC Life, HDFC Bank, and LIC Housing Finance
Market tech analysts Soni Patnaik, Mitessh Thakkar, and F&O analyst Rajesh Palviya recommend these stocks for short-term gains.
3 Financial Stocks Show Promise, Real Estate Overhyped: Samir Arora
Samir Arora, Founder of Helios Capital, highlights the potential of some NBFCs and microfinance companies, while expressing concerns about the real estate sector being overdone. He believes that HDFC Bank, Kotak Bank, and Bajaj Finance, which have underpe
NBT Office Relocation and Pune Book Festival Expected to Draw 7.5 Lakh Visitors
The National Book Trust (NBT) is set to shift its office to the city, a move that coincides with the highly anticipated Pune Book Festival. The festival, expected to attract 7.5 lakh visitors, is a significant cultural event that showcases a wide array of
Metro Brands Promoters Acquire Five Luxury Apartments in Mumbai's Worli for ₹405 Crore
The promoters of footwear retailer Metro Brands have made a significant investment in Mumbai's luxury real estate market by purchasing five apartments in the Worli area for ₹405 crore. These apartments are located in one of the city's tallest buildings, P
Maharashtra Real Estate: Majority of Developers Update Project Details for MahaRERA Compliance
A significant number of real estate developers in Maharashtra have taken steps to improve their compliance with the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) by updating their project details. This move reflects a growing commitment to trans