Over the past few years, infrastructure construction has received significant attention in India. Urban transport projects are expanding rapidly, supported by investments as well as policy and regulatory support. The use of digital tools and technologies in project planning, design and execution is positively impacting delivery timelines and overall performance. Sustainability is becoming central to infrastructure construction, with increasing emphasis on environmental safety, public health and convenience. At the InfraBuild 2026 conference, organised by India Infrastructure, R.K. Shrivastava, Director, Projects, Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation Limited (MRVCL), shared his views on the company’s experience in developing urban transport projects in Mumbai, the key challenges and priorities, and the role of digitalisation and sustainability in shaping construction practices. Edited excerpts…
What has been one of the biggest changes in infrastructure project execution in recent years?
There has been a significant transformation in the approach and attitude of stakeholders involved in project construction and delivery, including agencies responsible for utilities that need relocation, local government bodies for land acquisition support, and agencies involved in rehabilitation and resettlement. The formation of the project monitoring group by the central government has been a key initiative in this regard. The group, headed by chief secretary, Government of Maharashtra, and comprising divisional commissioners, land acquisition officers and district collectors, meets every 15 days to discuss progress. This has encouraged stakeholders to take ownership of their projects.
What are the key challenges in developing rail infrastructure in Mumbai?
The acquisition of private land remains a significant concern. There is practically no space to construct two more lines between Borivali and Virar. Multiple services need to be relocated to create that kind of space. Further, various permits are required from multiple agencies. Being in a coastal region, the project requires special permissions from the high court to cut mangroves for infrastructure development. From a project life cycle perspective, the majority of time is spent in the pre-project planning stage, that is, before execution.
What are your views on the role of digital technology and solutions?
Technology has been transformational. Digital solutions are facilitating quick decision-making, inventory management, resource management and design optimisation. At MRVCL, we are using the project management information system (PMIS) to monitor project progress. It also helps in taking decisions on a real-time basis, thereby expediting project delivery. Digital tools have also made document management easier. Documents can be accessed and even pulled back documents through remote systems. Drawings can be accessed, modified and quickly communicated with the contractor on a real-time basis.
How is sustainability being integrated into project execution?
I believe there are three components of sustainability. First is the safety of all stakeholders including the workmen because one bad incident causes a major setback to the project, significantly impacting project delivery.
The second is environment. Over the years, several environmental safeguards have been put in place to ensure minimum disruption to the surrounding areas. We are bringing our safety, health and, environmental (SHE) standards in line with the global standards.
Third is the social aspect, where society and the convenience of citizens are given importance. For instance, we have to make sure that there are underpasses, road overbridges, etc. for easy commute. We also provide proper rehabilitation and compensation for people who have been affected by project development.
At MRVCL, we are passionate about these three components of sustainability. For implementing the Mumbai Urban Transport Projects, we have made safety, health and environmental standards mandatory components in contractor agreements. The Maharashtra government already has policies for rehabilitation, and we are also undertaking several initiatives as part of our corporate social responsibility.
“The formation of the project monitoring group by the central government has been a key initiative.”
