Mumbai's Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has unveiled its ambitious budget estimate of Rs 74,427 crore for the fiscal year 2025-26, representing a 14.19% increase from the revised budget of Rs 65,180 crore for FY 2024-25. The budget was presented by Bhushan Gagrani, the BMC Commissioner and the state-appointed administrator, marking the third consecutive year of budget presentations without elected representatives following the general body’s dissolution.
The BMC aims to strengthen its financial foundation with projected revenue earnings set at Rs 40,693 crore by March 31, 2025. By December 2024, Rs 28,308 crore had already been earned, indicating strong revenue generation efforts. The upcoming year's budget proposes total revenue earnings of Rs 43,159 crore, which is set against the backdrop of rising demands for public services and infrastructure.
A significant highlight of the budget is the allocation of Rs 1,000 crore to the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) service. This funding is directed toward modernizing Mumbai's public transport infrastructure, which plays a pivotal role for millions of commuters. Since 2012-13, the BMC has contributed Rs 11,304 crore to BEST, with this latest allocation intended for infrastructure development, new equipment purchases, and operational expenses, including employee benefits and IT systems improvements.
Environmental initiatives have also made their mark, as the BMC has earmarked Rs 36 crore for the revival of the Gargai Dam project. This project was initially scrapped due to environmental concerns, but its resurrection is seen as pivotal to addressing Mumbai's increasing water supply needs. The BMC aims to boost its water supply infrastructure alongside implementing various other projects.
Adding to its commitment to education and social welfare, the BMC introduced the ‘Cyber Literacy’ program set to roll out from the academic year 2025-26. With budgetary allocations of Rs 23.6 crore, this initiative aims to educate students on safe internet practices, reflecting the growing concerns around cyber threats and online scams.
The budget also emphasizes improving walkability and public recreational spaces. The ‘Universal Footpath Policy’ has been singled out for implementation this year, complimented by the Rs 5,100 crore allocation dedicated to achieving accessible pedestrian environments throughout the city. This policy aims to create more pedestrian-friendly routes, enhancing overall urban mobility.
To integrate more green spaces, the BMC plans to construct various recreational projects, including the proposed 'Tiger Monument' within the Goregaon-Mulund Link Road tunnel. The acknowledgement of the need for such projects demonstrates the BMC's commitment to preserving Mumbai's ecology and providing community-centric spaces.
On the financial adequacy front, the budget also outlines efforts to generate additional revenue through taxation of commercial properties within slum areas. BMC estimates approximately 2.5 lakh slums within the city, 20% of which harbor commercial activities. Taxing these properties could generate up to Rs 350 crore, allowing for reinvestment back to improving services for slum residents, representing both social upliftment and financial pragmatism.
Public feedback is being recognized as pivotal within the BMC's budget allocations, with 2,703 suggestions received from residents concerning budget utilization, showcasing increased civic engagement compared to previous years.
Among other proposals, the BMC is striving to establish the 'Mumbai Eye'—a tourist attraction similar to the London Eye—under the public-private partnership model. If realized, it would bolster Mumbai’s tourism potential, creating leisure opportunities for both residents and visitors.
Infrastructure remains at the top of the agenda, with significant allocations directed to projects like the Mumbai Coastal Road, which received Rs 1,507.24 crore. This and similar major initiatives are necessary to alleviate congestion and improve urban logistics.
The 2025-26 BMC budget is positioned as not only ambitious but also necessary for the city's growth, facing pressing urban challenges head-on. The multifaceted approach shows how Mumbai is preparing to adapt its infrastructure and public services to meet the challenges of the future effectively.