The conclave hapenning in Worli area of Mumbai was inaugurated in the presence of Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma and brought together representatives of cities from BRICS countries, mayors, urban planners and other experts

He described cities as “growth engines” of a country’s economic progress and said urbanisation should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a challenge

Quoting Sant Tukaram Maharaj’s words, “Ekameka sahya karu, avaghe dharu supanth”, Shinde urged BRICS cities to work together and collectively chart a path towards sustainable development

Describing Mumbai as the “capital of India’s aspirations”, Shinde said the city represents hard work, diversity and resilience

He said hosting the BRICS conclave in Mumbai was a matter of pride for Maharashtra and urged participating cities to exchange experiences and innovations to shape future partnerships

Shinde highlighted rapid urbanisation, climate change, floods, heatwaves, traffic congestion, pollution, water management and affordable housing as common challenges confronting cities worldwide

He said these issues require solutions based on cross-border cooperation and the exchange of knowledge and experience

He said Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune, Nashik, Thane and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar are witnessing development across sectors such as metro rail, roads, drainage, redevelopment, affordable housing, digital services, green infrastructure and disaster management.