Third Mumbai Set to Become One of India’s Largest Planned Cities

KSC New Town near Navi Mumbai Airport expands to 371 sq km with 74 more villages added; master plan expected by August 2026.

The Maharashtra government is moving ahead with its ambitious ‘Third Mumbai’ project, officially called KSC (Karnala-Sai-Chirner) New Town. Planned around the Navi Mumbai International Airport, the new city aims to reduce population pressure on Mumbai and Navi Mumbai while creating a major hub for business, logistics and housing.

The project has been significantly expanded with the addition of 74 more villages, increasing its area from 324 sq km to nearly 371 sq km—almost three times the size of Mumbai city. The newly included villages are spread across the Karjat-Neral and Alibag-Poynad regions of Raigad district.

The master plan is expected to be finalised by August 2026. Singapore-based consultancy Surbana Jurong Infrastructure has been appointed to prepare the development blueprint, while drone mapping and LiDAR surveys have already been completed.

Major infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (Atal Setu), the Navi Mumbai International Airport and the upcoming Virar-Alibag Multimodal Corridor, are expected to drive the city’s growth. MMRDA has also allocated ₹4,000 crore in its 2026-27 budget for the project’s initial development.

However, challenges remain. Land acquisition and compensation policies are key concerns, with industry experts calling for greater transparency and better returns for landowners. Environmental sustainability and timely development of roads, transport, schools, hospitals and other civic amenities will also play a crucial role.

If implemented successfully, Third Mumbai has the potential to become Maharashtra’s next major growth centre, balancing urban development with the interests of local communities.