Mumbai's issues remain the same but outcome varies

A small geographical region that is home to nearly 1.5 to 2 per cent of India's population, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) generally votes on the issues directly concerning them. And, it is known for varied outcome - not always on expected lines.

Of the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra, 12 seats fall fully or partially in the jurisdiction of MMR - which comprises of twin districts of Mumbai City and Mumbai Suburban and parts of neighbouring Palghar, Thane and Raigad districts. While Mumbai spreads across 603.4 sq km, the MMR comprises of 6,355 sq kms.

"Mumbai's life is fast, hustling-bustling. One of the major issues in MMR are local trains, augmentation of services, seamless train service, infrastructure upgradation, disruption during monsoon, drinking water, safety and security," says veteran political and markets analyst Ajit Joshi. According to him, the travails of the travellers are the main issues.

Political analyst and writer Prakash Akolkar, who has penned a book Mumbai on Sale, said that the definition of MMR for a layman is the places covered under Mumbai's suburban train network.

According to social activist Dinesh Sadh, with nine municipal corporations, nine municipal councils and several local bodies, "there is no unified structure" in Mumbai Metropolitan Region. "It has multiple agencies, we need to look into the issue," he said, adding that every monsoon there are one or two major breakdowns. "Commuting has become a time-consuming affair," he said.

RTI activist Anil Galgali said that Mumbai and its suburbs face the issue of lack of public space and open space. "Quality of life depends on it," he added.

According to conservationist Shardul Bajikar, open spaces and green lungs of Mumbai and MMR are under threat. "Development needs to have a human face," he said, adding that the Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Aarey forests are facing threats from unplanned development.

Constituencies in MMR region

Mumbai South,
Mumbai South Central,
Mumbai North East,
Mumbai North West,
Mumbai North Central,
Mumbai North,
Thane
Palghar (ST),
Bhiwandi,
Kalyan,
Raigad,
Maval