Mumbai, January 8, 2026 – Mumbai is not only considered the financial capital of Maharashtra but also of INDIA. The city is a hub of dreams and opportunities for millions, often described as the ‘running Mumbai.’ Recent political developments indicate that during the tenure of Devendra Fadnavis-led BJP-Mahayuti government, Mumbai experienced rapid development. In contrast, under Uddhav Thackeray’s Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, the city’s progress faced significant slowdowns, often described as hitting a ‘speedbreaker.’

Between 2014 and 2019, under Devendra Fadnavis’ leadership, Mumbai entered a golden era of infrastructure development. Long-pending projects such as the Mumbai Metro Network, Coastal Road, and the Trans Harbour Link (Atal Setu) were executed at a remarkable pace. This period is widely regarded as a milestone in the city’s modernization and infrastructure growth.

However, the Uddhav Thackeray government, which came to power in 2019 in alliance with Congress and the undivided NCP, faced criticism for halting several development projects. Political retaliation reportedly led to delays and increased costs, notably the stoppage of the Metro-3 Aarey Car Shed project, which escalated expenses by nearly ₹10,000 crore and caused a four-year delay for Mumbai residents.

From water conservation zones to metro projects, the MVA government’s tenure was marked by frequent interruptions in public welfare initiatives. While citizens struggled with potholes and traffic congestion, instructions from the ‘Matoshree’ residence allegedly focused on obstructing development work.

During challenging times like the lockdown, allegations of corruption and extravagance surfaced against the Uddhav Thackeray group and its allies. Scandals such as the ‘Khichdi Scam’ and ‘Body Bag Scam’ raised questions about whether public welfare was ever prioritized by the administration.

The return of the Mahayuti government under Eknath Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis in 2022 brought relief to Mumbai. Pending projects were revived, and development momentum resumed. The Atal Setu, India’s longest sea bridge, was completed in record time and opened to the public. Similarly, the Coastal Road project has significantly reduced travel time between South Mumbai and Worli.

Projects once opposed as ‘unwanted,’ like the Bullet Train, are now progressing rapidly. New metro routes are continuously being added, becoming vital lifelines for the city’s commuters.

With the 2024 assembly election reaffirming Mahayuti’s position, there is confidence that Maharashtra’s progress will continue. However, the upcoming BMC Election 2026 stands as a crucial decision point for Mumbai’s citizens. If the ‘speedbreaker alliance’ that hindered development returns to power, the city’s growth could once again slow down.

Mumbai voters must choose between fast-track development and politics that place brakes on essential projects. It is widely regarded as necessary to permanently stop ‘speedbreaker’ tendencies to ensure the city’s progress and the convenience of its residents.