Mumbai: In a significant shift for Mumbai’s infrastructure, the long-standing issue of pothole-ridden roads and the alleged misuse of public funds in their repairs is seeing a dramatic turnaround. Under the MahaYuti government’s aggressive road concretization drive, the cost of pothole repairs has reportedly dropped by a massive 75%, signaling tighter control over contractor practices and improved governance.
A Sharp Drop in Repair Costs
According to Ameet Satam Mumbai BJP President and MLA, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) spent ₹202 crore on pothole repairs in the financial year 2023–24. With the rapid expansion of cement concrete roads, this expenditure is projected to fall to just ₹44 crore by 2026–27. This steady decline over the past three years reflects both reduced dependency on temporary fixes and improved road durability.
Pothole Repair Expenditure Trend
Financial Year
Cost (₹ Crore)
Reduction
2023–24
202
—
2024–25
156
23%
2025–26
89
43%
2026–27 (est.)
44
50%
Concrete Roads to Transform Mumbai by 2027
Mumbai’s total road network spans approximately 2,050 km. A large-scale concretization project is underway to make roads more durable and pothole-free. Out of 677 km of roads taken up since 2022, nearly 71% (481 km) has already been completed.
By May 2027, around 1,900 km of roads are expected to be converted into cement concrete.This transformation is expected to significantly reduce recurring pothole issues and ensure smoother, safer travel for commuters across Mumbai.
IIT-Led Third-Party Audits Ensure Quality
To maintain construction standards and eliminate irregularities, third-party audits by the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) have been made mandatory. Experts are closely inspecting both Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the project, ensuring accountability and preventing substandard work by contractors. Officials Present at Key Review Meeting, The review meeting was attended by prominent civic leaders including: Ritu Tawade, Mayor of Mumbai, Ganesh Khankar, Leader of the House, Ashwini Bhide, Municipal Commissioner along with senior officials from the roads department.
