The POWER of perseverance

Ashwini Bhide, Additional Municipal Commissioner, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) & Managing Director, Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC), has been intrepidly marching to complete the gigantic projects she has on hand

- Jayashree Kini Mendes

With Women’s Day around the corner, it was only fitting that we portray a prominent woman with real estate or infrastructure as her core on the cover. And who better than Ashwini Bhide, Additional Municipal Commissioner, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) & Managing Director, Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC). Considering that she is currently overseeing two of Mumbai’s massive high-profile projects, it is only befitting that we unearth how this bureaucrat has moved roles to a deserving career progression and her success in a powerful bureaucratic role.

Women are equally capable as men in succeeding in any role or industry, with a growing number making strides in the infrastructure sector particularly. The uptake of leadership roles by women in various professions is an encouraging trend. Irrespective of gender, individuals should nurture qualities like discipline and honesty, in addition to acquiring the necessary skills to propel their career growth.

Since taking over as MD at MMRC once again in 2022, Ashwini has taken charge of the Mumbai Metro Line 3. Intrepid as she is, the profile of the projects under her can be daunting for any other established person.

In a dialogue with Jayashree Kini Mendes, Ashwini elucidates the gruelling work happening on the Mumbai coastal road project and the Mumbai Metro.

Excerpts of the interview:

MUMBAI COASTAL ROAD PROJECT

Such a project of this size was never imagined in Mumbai. But it has been made possible. How did you go about planning the project and also procurement?