The Maharashtra government is expected to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Netherlands to develop a 35-km long coastal road that will connect South Mumbai and Kandivali in North Mumbai.
The agreement is likely to be inked during the three-day visit of Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte to India which begins today.
Rutte will meet Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for a business interaction.
During the Netherlands Prime Minister’s visit, there are several MoUs, like on transfer of technology and training of our staff which may be signed between the two governments. However, building of the coastal road will be the top priority.
-Office of Maharashtra CM, Devendra Fadnavis
According to the official, even though China has shown keen interest, the Netherlands is known for its expertise in building coastal roads.
If all goes well, the contract to build the coastal road would go to the Netherlands.
-Office of Maharashtra CM, Devendra Fadnavis
The state is also expecting a relaxation in the 2011 notifications of Coastal Regulation Zone norms, that will allow the completion of the eastern coastal road.
According to the official, the plan of the coastal road is ready and the state intends to develop a 200-acre lush green belt along the road. The meeting on June 8 should make the decision on the contract clearer.
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