The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) presented its budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026, aiming to focus on large-scale infrastructure development and water supply improvements. With the city's growing demands, the BMC has earmarked significant allocations to bolster its ongoing and upcoming projects.
The BMC's total budget for the upcoming year is set at Rs 65,703.79 crore, a substantial rise from last year’s Rs 57,210 crore. This increased allocation marks a decisive step towards Mumbai's infrastructural needs, with a strong emphasis on improving civic amenities, particularly water supply, and road networks. With these funds, the BMC plans to create a sustainable infrastructure network to support the city’s rapid expansion.
One of the major focuses of the BMC budget is ensuring a steady water supply for Mumbai’s growing population. Rs 8,477 crore has been allotted to water supply-related projects, with new initiatives to bolster the city’s infrastructure, especially in peripheral areas where water access has been historically inconsistent.
Plans include the development of the Mulund and Bhandup water treatment plants, and upgrading the city's old water supply system to reduce losses due to leakage and contamination.
Mumbai’s urban sprawl, particularly in the eastern and western suburbs, has been seeing population growth without a commensurate increase in water supply infrastructure.
The BMC is now accelerating the construction of additional reservoirs, pipelines, and treatment plants. Projects aimed at augmenting water capacity and enhancing distribution are expected to alleviate water shortages and ensure a consistent supply.
In line with infrastructure improvement, the BMC is allocating funds to road development, particularly for coastal and suburban roads. Mumbai’s road network, especially in the eastern suburbs and coastal zones, has faced challenges due to years of neglect and environmental stress.
The BMC has set aside funds for key road projects such as the construction and upgrading of coastal roads, a vital link between the city’s various districts.
With a total of Rs 3,500 crore dedicated to improving road connectivity, the BMC aims to ease traffic congestion and improve the overall commuting experience for Mumbai’s citizens. The plans also include major interventions in areas prone to flooding during the monsoon season, ensuring smoother year-round travel.
To support the ambitious plans, the BMC has also focused on augmenting its revenue generation. The civic body has intensified efforts to collect property taxes. A more stringent approach to tax compliance, including pending property dues from earlier years, is part of the strategy. Projections indicate an increase in revenue from Rs 13,000 crore to Rs 16,000 crore in the coming year.
BMC officials have stressed that the budget is aligned with the city’s long-term vision of sustainable growth. Investments in water management, solid waste management, and urban infrastructure will ensure Mumbai’s infrastructure keeps pace with its expanding population. In particular, the focus on water supply has garnered attention, as the city continues to grapple with challenges brought on by climate change, population pressure, and infrastructural bottlenecks.
Looking forward, the BMC is setting up systems for public-private collaborations to expedite development work, ensuring a quicker turnaround for high-priority projects.
The BMC’s budget for 2025-2026 highlights the civic body’s commitment to addressing Mumbai’s urban challenges. As Mumbai continues its transformation into a global metropolis, the BMC's proactive approach will play a crucial role in shaping its future.