New Delhi (Agency): Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is positive about funding two major infrastructure projects in Mumbai. The projects include the Versova-Virar Sea Link and the Wadala-Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) Metro line.
Fadnavis shared the information with reporters upon his return from a five-day trip to Japan. During the visit, he met high-level officials from the Japanese government, as well as the advisor to the Japanese prime minister. “They were positive about cooperation for this project (Versova-Virar Sea Link). They have requested us to send a proposal through the Centre,” Fadnavis said.
The deputy chief minister also stated that JICA showed a positive outlook towards financing the Wadala-CSMT line of the Mumbai Metro. Alongside these projects, discussions on a flood mitigation project for Mumbai were also held.
In addition to infrastructure talks, Fadnavis held discussions with various Japanese companies about the possibility of investments in Maharashtra. “Japanese businesses want to come here and efforts are being made to bring them to Maharashtra. From semiconductors to all types of manufacturing, from data centres to artificial intelligence, all types of investments can be brought to Maharashtra,” he added.
This development comes as a significant step for Maharashtra, particularly for Mumbai, which is grappling with congestion and a need for upgraded infrastructure. The potential funding by JICA could accelerate the city’s development plans, making it more accessible and alleviating some of the current traffic woes.
The news has generated much interest as it opens up the doors for international cooperation and investment, not only in infrastructure but also in diverse sectors like manufacturing, data centres, and artificial intelligence. All eyes are now on the formal proposal that Maharashtra will send through the Centre, hoping that this international support will translate into better infrastructure and quality of life for the residents of Mumbai.
