Mumbai

Green, Jen. Mumbai. Part of the Global Cities series. 2007. 60p. ISBN 978-0-7910-8851-0. Available at 954 GRE on the library shelves.

One of the world’s most dynamic city, Mumbai is perfectly positioned at the center of economic activity. India’s largest city, Mumbai grew up around a deep water harbor that facilitated communication and trade between the Red Sea and distant Europe to the West and China to the East. The several islands that make up the core of the old city were first colonized by Portugal in 1534 but were then transferred to Britain in 1661.

British rule brought an increase in commerce and population, and the British conquest of Western India in 1818 eased some of the pressures on Mumbai. Also known as Bollywood, Mumbai continues to grow at a frenetic pace, stretching municipal services and infrastructure to the breaking point.

Mumbai’s dynamic population keeps increasing as people from the surrounding countryside and as far away as the other side of the country move in for better economic opportunities. Land is at a premium, and millions of people live in shantytowns. There isn’t always enough water for the needs of the population, and the environmental demands of 21 million people continue to be a challenge for Mumbai’s managers.

The future of Mumbai will necessarily require that problems in infrastructure and environmental concerns be addressed by its population and that the basic needs of all be met. Mumbai’s standing as a global city requires nothing less.