BMC's Budget Growth and Fiscal Challenges Ahead of Mumbai Civic Elections

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), India's richest civic body, is preparing for mayoral elections on January 15. Its budget for 2024-25 is estimated to be twice that of Delhi and Bengaluru combined. BMC's expenditure has grown significantly, with capital spending now comprising nearly 60% of its outlay, focusing on infrastructure projects. However, revenue growth has lagged behind spending, raising concerns about fiscal sustainability for the incoming civic leadership.