Maharashtra: $1 Trillion Economy Vision Gets A Boost With Dighi Industrial Smart City Project

The Maharashtra government's infrastructure development efforts have received a significant boost following the Union Cabinet's approval for the establishment of the Dighi Port Industrial Area as an industrial smart city in Raigad district.

According to a Free Press Journal report, located 55 km east of Dighi Port, the proposed industrial smart city will span 6,056 acres and involve an investment of Rs 5,469 crore. The project is anticipated to attract investments worth Rs 38,000 crore and create approximately 109,185 jobs, making it a key driver of economic growth in the region.

"The development of the Dighi Port Industrial Area as a smart city, alongside the Vadhavan Port, is expected to spur growth across various sectors and contribute significantly to Maharashtra's goal of becoming a $1 trillion economy," an official said.

The Dighi smart city's development will focus on sectors such as engineering, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, textiles, and food and beverages. As a port city, it is expected to play a crucial role in port-led industrialisation, leveraging its proximity to the upcoming Dighi Port.

The new smart city is also expected to ease congestion in the Mumbai Metropolitan Area, offering connectivity to both Mumbai and Pune. Its development is projected to promote eco and heritage tourism in the region.

In terms of connectivity, the Dighi industrial smart city will benefit from its proximity to NH753F Mangaon-Pune and NH66 Mumbai-Goa national highways, as well as state highway 97. Rail links to Kolad, Indapur, and Mangaon, and access to Mumbai Airport, Pune Airport, and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, further enhance its accessibility.

Additionally, a Multi-Modal Logistic Park is proposed at Dighi, aimed at optimising freight and passenger movement. This development is expected to reduce logistics costs from the current 14-16 per cent to around 9 per cent, contributing to increased efficiency and competitiveness for businesses operating in the region.

With these developments, Maharashtra's infrastructure landscape is set to undergo a transformative change, positioning the state as a leading industrial and economic powerhouse in the country.