World Bank closely working with Maharashtra govt: Georgieva

The World Bank is closely working with the Maharashtra government to deliver a proposed assistance programme of over one billion USD in the areas of urban transport and climate resilient agriculture over the next two to three years.

The announcement was made by World Bank CEO Kristalina Georgieva after concluding her day-long visit to the megapolis.

"Over the last 5 years, the World Bank has invested over 1.4 billion USD in Maharashtra in urban transport, rural water supply and agriculture," she told reporters.

Earlier in the day, she experienced how the megapolis was managing some of the major challenges of fast-paced, sprawling urbanisation.

The World Bank CEO travelled in a suburban local train and interacted with women commuters to understand the challenges and opportunities for improving the public transport system.

"To meet the aspirations of Mumbaikars, some of whom I met today, the city will have to make massive investments in transport infrastructure. The bank is committed to support the government's efforts in this area through investments that strengthen the government's capacity to leverage additional funds, including those from the private sector," she said.

Georgieva said the World Bank was also committed to help the state develop climate resilient agriculture practices in drought prone regions.

She also visited a school in Dharavi to see how Mumbai's administrators were striving to ensure basic services for all its residents, one third of whom live in slums.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the state government was committed to ensure high economic growth for its people.

"The state faces significant challenges, particularly in areas of urban transport, climate change and water. We are keen to work with the World Bank in these areas and explore future opportunities to deepen our engagement for overall development of the state," said Fadnavis.