BB Desk
Mumbai’s long-held office map is being rewritten. Corporate occupiers are now increasingly shifting their focus from Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), Lower Parel, and Nariman Point to the Eastern and Northern suburbs, with Chembur-Ghatkopar East emerging as one of the most promising new commercial areas.
The industry experts attribute this eastward shift to the triple advantage of connectivity, cost-efficiency, and contemporary infrastructure. “Chembur–Ghatkopar East is no longer a secondary option — it’s becoming a strategic choice for corporates seeking modern infrastructure without the premium rents of South and South-Central Mumbai,”says Shilpin Tater, Managing Director, Superb Realty. “With seamless connectivity through the Santacruz–Chembur Link Road, Eastern Freeway, Eastern Express Highway, and several major infrastructure upgrades, the region offers unmatched accessibility across the city. Developers are delivering floor plates and amenities that meet occupier expectations, making the East a compelling proposition that combines better value with long-term growth potential.” adds Tater.
Several interconnected factors are propelling this transformation. The Eastern Freeway, Santacruz-Chembur Link Road, and Mumbai Metro link have significantly reduced travel times, boosting last-mile access to central and western suburbs. This has prompted more BFSI, tech, and professional services companies to assess these emerging micro-markets.
Khetsi Barot, Managing Director, The Guardians Real Estate Advisory observes, “Over the past 12 to 18 months, we’ve seen a clear rebalancing of Mumbai’s office map. The traditional trio — BKC, Lower Parel, and Nariman Point — will always hold prestige, but the growing need for larger, more efficient, and cost-competitive offices is driving firms toward the Northern and Eastern suburbs. Chembur–Ghatkopar’s rise is being accelerated by favourable rental economics, newer office inventory, and its ability to attract and retain suburban talent.”
Developers active in the eastern corridor are offering new-age, Grade-A commercial projects with larger floor plates and sustainability-focused designs, appealing to companies seeking scalable, tech-ready workspaces. With rentals nearly 30–40% lower than BKC and far more parking and open space availability, the east is now matching the appeal of established business districts while offering tangible economic advantages.
For occupiers, the east offers the flexibility to grow in modern, well-connected environments while retaining access to Mumbai’s talent pool. For investors, it represents an emerging commercial belt with long-term appreciation potential, driven by sustained leasing activity and infrastructure-led growth.
If infrastructure upgrades continue at the current pace, Chembur–Ghatkopar East is poised to consolidate its position as Mumbai’s next mainstream commercial corridor, reshaping the geography of work and investment for years to come.
