Mumbai 3.0 Takes Off: Navi Mumbai Aetropolis Phase 1 Inaugurated

Author: Ajjay Bhagyakar Published by: Griha Realty Source: Twitter

Source: Twitter

The vision of Mumbai 3.0 has officially taken flight with the inauguration of Phase 1 of the Navi Mumbai Aetropolis, a futuristic urban development designed to redefine India’s metropolitan landscape. Strategically located beside the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), this project marks the beginning of a new chapter in the city’s evolution — a bold step toward building a next-generation global hub.

Navi Mumbai Aetropolis: The First Layer of Mumbai 3.0

Spread across 667 acres, Phase 1 of the Aetropolis will feature three core zones — residential, commercial, and retail — designed to function as an integrated urban ecosystem. This first phase forms the nucleus of a much larger vision that will eventually extend over a 10-square-kilometre radius around NMIA, encompassing specialized districts such as Edu City, Innovation City, Sports City, and Medi City.

The project is being developed under the broader framework of NAINA (Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area), which is planned and managed by CIDCO. NAINA is often referred to as the “Third Mumbai”, a term symbolizing the region’s transformation into a self-sustained, world-class urban zone with modern infrastructure, green design, and balanced growth between residential and economic activities.

Integration with Reliance’s Mega SEZ

One of the most significant aspects of the Aetropolis masterplan is its integration with Reliance Industries’ $75-billion Special Economic Zone project. A key node within the Aetropolis area will become part of this SEZ, creating a seamless connection between global business operations, logistics, and urban lifestyle.

Reliance has already secured over 5,000 acres of land near NMIA and JNPT, signaling the region’s rise as a powerhouse of economic and industrial growth. This synergy between aviation, commerce, and innovation positions Navi Mumbai as India’s next international economic corridor.

Connectivity and Infrastructure

The Aetropolis benefits from an exceptional connectivity matrix. The Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (Atal Setu) now connects Sewri to Chirle in under 20 minutes, dramatically improving access from South Mumbai. Future Metro Line 8, the Multi-Modal Corridor, and proximity to JNPT Port further strengthen its logistic advantage.

The operational launch of the Navi Mumbai International Airport will amplify this connectivity, placing Aetropolis at the heart of a new economic ecosystem where business, education, healthcare, and lifestyle converge.

NAINA: The Smart City Vision

NAINA’s development model is based on land pooling, ensuring inclusive growth by returning serviced plots to original landowners. It represents a shift from traditional land acquisition toward participatory urbanization, emphasizing sustainability, infrastructure readiness, and equitable value creation.

The Road Ahead

With Phase 1 inaugurated, the foundation for India’s first planned Aerotropolis is firmly in place. The coming years will see the emergence of new districts — each focused on specialized sectors — transforming Navi Mumbai into a vibrant global destination.

This is not just a real estate development; it’s a vision for India’s future urban identity. As the first layer of Mumbai 3.0 unfolds, Navi Mumbai Aetropolis stands as a symbol of progress, innovation, and ambition — a city built for the next century.