Third Time's The Charm? BMC Revives Mumbai Eye Project In Budget 2025

Mumbai could soon boast its very own giant observation wheel, much like London’s iconic London Eye! The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has revived this ambitious plan as part of its Budget 2025, unveiled on Tuesday, February 4.

As per the budget plan, the Mumbai Eye will be developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with its final location yet to be determined. The design promises a world-class experience, featuring air-conditioned, sealed passenger capsules, each accommodating up to 25 visitors. As the wheel gently rotates, passengers will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Mumbai’s ever-evolving skyline.

On the Lines of the London Eye

Across the world, observation wheels have become iconic landmarks, drawing millions of visitors each year.

The London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel, is a 135-metre (443-foot) Ferris wheel that graces the banks of the River Thames. It holds the title of the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel—a remarkable feat of design and engineering. Over the years, it has become a modern symbol of London and a global icon.

The experience offers stunning 360-degree views of the capital and its famous landmarks, making it London’s top visitor attraction for over a decade.

If realized, the Mumbai Eye could play a similar role—elevating the city’s skyline, enhancing tourism appeal, and becoming a must-visit attraction.

A Vision Revived Once Again

This isn’t Mumbai’s first attempt at building an observation wheel.

The concept was first proposed in 2011 by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC). Over a decade later, in 2023, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) revived the plan, proposing the Bandra Reclamation promenade as a potential site. The agency even issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to appoint a project management consultant for feasibility studies and developer selection.

However, the plan faced strong opposition from Bandra Reclamation residents, who voiced concerns about traffic congestion and environmental restrictions imposed by the Ministry of Environment and Forests. As a result, the project was once again scrapped.

Now, with BMC stepping in, this marks the third attempt to turn Mumbai’s vision of a world-class observation wheel into reality. If successful, the Mumbai Eye could become a global attraction, boosting tourism, generating employment, and redefining the city’s waterfront.