Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Apr 27: In a move aimed at revolutionizing urban transport, the Maharashtra government has set its sights on implementing a Water Metro system in Mumbai, drawing inspiration from the successful Kochi Water Metro. Maharashtra Ports Minister Nitesh Rane announced on Saturday that a detailed project report (DPR) for the Mumbai Water Metro would be presented by the end of this month. The project will be carried out under a 50:50 equity partnership between the Union government and the state.
Mumbai, comprising seven islands, has never fully utilized its waterways for transportation. Rane emphasized that the proposed Water Metro project could significantly ease the pressure on roads and suburban railways. "The project will not only enhance urban transportation but also boost tourism in Mumbai, India's financial capital," he said.
The Kochi Water Metro, launched in December 2023, was India's first city to introduce such a system, offering residents an eco-friendly and scenic alternative to daily commuting. The project in Mumbai will see the introduction of battery-powered ferries connecting various parts of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), with routes including Narangi-Kharwadeswari, Vasai-Mira Bhayander, Fountain Jetty-Gaimukh-Nagale, and more.
Rane also outlined 21 proposed station locations along major water bodies such as the Vaitarna River, Vasai, Thane, and the Mumbai Port Trust waters. Phase one will launch the water metro, while phase two will introduce a Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) service for better last-mile connectivity.
A major focus of the project will be its multi-modal integration, alongside improvements to access roads. Rane added that the tidal differences of up to 3.5 meters would be factored into the system’s design to ensure seamless operations.
In addition to the transport benefits, the Water Metro project is expected to open up new tourism avenues, particularly through potential developments around historical sites like Vasai Fort. "A tourism circuit is being considered, connecting forts, bird-watching centres, water parks, and religious destinations," Rane said, stressing the importance of regular cleaning of water bodies.
Furthermore, Rane highlighted the upcoming Navi Mumbai airport, which will feature India's first water taxi service. A water metro terminal will be constructed near the airport, with a DPR to be prepared in collaboration with CIDCO, Maharashtra Maritime Board, and the state ports ministry.