Mumbai Metro Soars But Water Ferry Limps: Nariman Point-Borivali Project Remains On Paper 

Government of Maharashtra has been trying to boost Metro connectivity of Mumbai with its suburbs at a fast pace. However, one mode of transportation has no buyers- the water ferry project that is supposed to connect Nariman Point with Borivali has taken a backseat once more.

Due to high costs, Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) has been facing a difficult time convincing interested parties to invest their time and money into the project. A year ago, one operator expressed interest putting the ferry into operation. Yet, the project could not be pulled off since he failed to understand the concept of the project.

DNA India quoted an MMB official as saying, “Unlike the Gateway of India, the water between Nariman Point and Borivali is the open sea. We need vessels of that capacity. Even if we get a vessel that can ferry in the open sea, its cost will not be affordable. Moreover, the services wouldn't be operational during the monsoons. Because of all this, operators fear the people won't take to it.”

Conceptualised in the 90s, the plan has remained only on paper and has never been successfully executed despite several attempts. The project aims to connect the northern and southern parts of Mumbai.