Mumbai To Have Water Metro On Lines Of Kochi, Maharashtra Seeks Help For First Waterway Commute

Kochi Water Metro has been tasked with preparing a detailed project report (DPR) for a similar service in Mumbai, Maharashtra Ports Minister Nitesh Rane has confirmed.

Speaking to PTI, Rane said that the DPR is expected by the end of the month, adding that a special purpose vehicle (SPV) will be formed to implement the project in collaboration with the Union government on a 50:50 equity partnership.

Rane stated how Mumbai is made up of seven islands, but waterways have never been used before to their full potential, asserting that such a service would ease the burden on the city’s crowded roads and suburban railway networks.

"The water metro project will improve urban transportation and boost tourism in the country’s financial capital. Kochi Water Metro is assisting the Maharashtra government. Under it, battery-powered ferries will connect various parts of the Mumbai metropolitan region (MMR)," he explained.

Potential routes outlined include Narangi-Kharwadeswari, Vasai-Mira Bhayander, Fountain Jetty-Gaimukh-Nagale, and several others connecting key nodes such as the Gateway of India, Domestic Cruise Terminal (DCT), and Nariman Point.

"There are 21 proposed locations for stations along the Vaitarna River, Vasai, Thane, Manori and Panvel creeks and Mumbai Port Trust waters," Rane elaborated.

The first phase will see the launch of a water metro, followed by a Ro-Ro (roll on-roll off) service in the second phase. "Through the water metro, multi-modal integration can be implemented," he added.

He also assured, "Access road development works will be done," while accounting for tidal variations of up to 3.5 metres.

Emphasising the tourism potential, Rane said a separate project could focus on Vasai Fort and developing a broader tourism circuit, linking forts, bird-watching centres, and water-based attractions.

A water metro terminal is also planned near the upcoming Navi Mumbai airport, promising seamless multi-modal travel.

Also Read: Assam Police Arrest 16 Over 'Seditious' Comments After Pahalgam Terror Attack: CM Sarma