Mumbai: BJP leader and MLA from Colaba, Rahul Narvekar, assumed office as Maharashtra Assembly Speaker for the second consecutive term on Monday. Shortly after his unopposed election, Narvekar announced his commitment to spearheading the ambitious Maha Vista Project, aimed at redeveloping state legislative buildings to accommodate more legislators and digitize legislative operations.
Narvekar outlined plans for a revamped legislative campus in Mumbai, which will include an upgraded Assembly chamber with a capacity for up to 350 MLAs. “The redevelopment of the legislative campus is a priority. It will provide increased capacity and modern facilities for legislators,” he stated.
He also emphasized the need for a central hall at the Nagpur legislative campus, noting, “Nagpur currently lacks a central hall, and I will push for its construction.”
The current Maharashtra Assembly, with 288 members, can accommodate 305-310 legislators with minor adjustments. However, with a likely delimitation exercise by 2026, the Assembly’s strength could rise to 350, necessitating larger infrastructure. The Maha Vista Project, inspired by the Central Vista redevelopment in Delhi, is expected to address these needs.
Sources indicate that open spaces within the legislative campus, previously under the revenue and PWD departments, have been transferred to the legislature. A public road adjacent to the legislative building has also been reassigned for legislative use.
First announced in February 2024 during the Budget speech by Deputy CM and Finance Minister Ajit Pawar, the project is estimated to cost ₹7,500 crore. It includes the redevelopment of the Mantralaya, ministers’ bungalows, a new Secretariat, and an upgraded legislative complex. In August, the Public Works Department (PWD) floated a global tender inviting designs for ministers’ bungalows and the Mantralaya.
Narvekar also acknowledged the prolonged lack of accommodation for MLAs, with the Majestic and Manora MLA hostels under redevelopment for six years. “The Majestic MLA hostel will be completed within a year, while the Manora MLA hostel will be ready in two years,” he assured.
The Maha Vista Project is expected to transform the legislative infrastructure of Maharashtra, ensuring it meets the needs of a growing Assembly and a more digital, efficient future.