Navi Mumbai: Mumbai’s peripheral regions are on the cusp of transformative growth, with Palghar and Boisar emerging as key real estate and industrial hubs. The government has initiated steps to establish a third airport in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) at Palghar, complementing the upcoming deep-water port in the area.
Alongside the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, bullet train corridor, and other infrastructure projects, this move is expected to accelerate urbanisation, making the region an attractive destination for both businesses and homebuyers.
About The Proposed Airport
The proposed airport is part of a larger vision to position Palghar as ‘Mumbai 3.0’, an extension of the city’s rapid expansion. The Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC) has commenced a pre-feasibility study to assess the viability of the project.
Swati Pandey, managing director of MADC, stated, “The consultants will determine what is feasible in the area. This is a first step by the government.”
Real estate developers are optimistic about the region’s prospects. Prashant Khandelwal, president of CREDAI-MCHI Palghar Boisar Unit, noted that the infrastructure push would catalyse demand across commercial, residential, and industrial segments.
“Boisar-Palghar is rapidly emerging as a real estate hotspot. Along with the proposed airport, the Vadhavan Port, set to be India’s largest, will enhance trade routes for Mumbai, Nashik, and Surat. Improved connectivity will open up new micro-markets and attract national and international businesses,” Khandelwal said.
With its affordable property rates compared to Mumbai and Thane, Boisar has already gained traction among homebuyers and investors. The area’s social infrastructure –comprising schools, hospitals, malls, and commercial hubs – has made it a self-sustaining community.
Additionally, the government’s plan for a sports complex in North Mumbai promises to generate employment and further fuel urban development. The concept of a third airport in MMR has been in discussion for several years. Former chief minister Uddhav Thackeray had explored potential locations in Kelva-Mahim or Dapchari.