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Last-Mile Connectivity a Prime Focus, Says Ms. Ashwini Bhide,

2025-11-06

The IMC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IMC) hosted a high-impact Managing Committee session today on the theme “Mumbai Metro: Transforming Connectivity and Commuting.” The session featured an insightful address by Ms. Ashwini Bhide, Managing Director, Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (MMRCL), who shared updates on key transport infrastructure developments across Mumbai and the MMR region.

Emphasising the city’s critical economic role, Ms. Bhide noted, “Mumbai is the economic powerhouse of Maharashtra, with more than 95% of the region’s population living in urban areas. As Maharashtra continues to be a major contributor to India’s growth, nearly USD 1 trillion of this contribution is expected from Mumbai and the MMR alone. This makes sustained investment in large-scale infrastructure such as the Mumbai Metro Rail essential.”

During the session, IMC also announced its collaboration with Project Mumbai’s flagship initiative, Mumbai Climate Week (MCW), scheduled for February 17–19, 2026. The inaugural edition—set to be hosted by the Honourable Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis—aims to position India as a climate action leader in the Global South. Led by Project Mumbai in partnership with the Government of Maharashtra’s Department of Environment and Climate Change and supported by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), MCW seeks to drive collective action, collaboration, and innovation for a sustainable future.

The association between IMC and MCW was formalised through a logo-exchange ceremony in the presence of Ms. Bhide.

Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Shishir Joshi, Founder & CEO of Project Mumbai, said, “Mumbai Climate Week marks a historic step for Maharashtra and India as we unite to amplify the voices of the Global South. This platform reflects our commitment to building climate-resilient communities through inclusive collaboration and actionable solutions. MCW will catalyse transformative partnerships that transcend borders.”

Highlighting IMC’s commitment to sustainability, Ms. Sunita Ramnathkar, President, IMC, said, “At IMC, we believe Mumbai’s future lies in sustainable, resilient, and well-connected urban infrastructure. The Mumbai Metro is not only transforming daily commuting—it is shaping the city’s economic and environmental trajectory. Our association with Mumbai Climate Week reinforces our dedication to advancing climate action and meaningful partnerships. Together, these initiatives reflect our vision for a greener, more inclusive, and future-ready Mumbai that sets an example for the nation.”

The session concluded with interactive discussions and networking opportunities facilitated by IMC, offering members valuable insights into Mumbai’s evolving infrastructure landscape.

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