Mumbai
The Maharashtra Government is set to launch an ambitious Maha-Vista project, inspired by New Delhi’s Central Vista. A global competition has been announced to solicit innovative ideas for the project.
First introduced by Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Ajit Pawar during the budget 2024-25 speech, the Maha-Vista initiative aims to transform the entire Secretariat and Vidhan Bhavan complex, with an estimated budget of ₹ 7,500 crore.
Mantralaya, spanning 16 acres in South Mumbai, currently faces significant space constraints, which has led to various State departments operating out of rented privately owned buildings.
This past March, the Maharashtra government agreed to acquire the iconic Air India building nearby for ₹ 1,601 crore, with payment pending.
The comprehensive Maha-Vista plan encompasses the existing Mantralaya, the Annex building, ministerial bungalows, and the historic Vidhan Bhavan building. Additionally, the proposal includes a new Secretariat, a modern Legislature building, and residential facilities for ministers and bureaucrats.
Post-budget, Mr. Pawar revealed that a Mumbai-based architect has proposed designs for new gardens and roads as part of the project.
With the delimitation of State Assembly constituencies on the horizon for 2026 and a growing population in Maharashtra, there will be an increasing demand for additional Members of Legislative Assembly and Members of Legislative Council, necessitating more residential quarters for elected officials.
