BMC Resurrects Mumbai Eye Project in Budget 2025
In a bold move to redefine Mumbai’s skyline, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has revived the much-discussed Mumbai Eye project in its Budget 2025, making a third attempt at bringing a giant observation wheel to the city. Drawing inspiration from global landmarks like the London Eye, this world-class Ferris wheel promises to become a signature attraction for the city, offering sweeping panoramic views of Mumbai’s ever-changing skyline.
The proposed Mumbai Eye will be developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, though its exact location is yet to be determined. However, the design has already captured attention, promising passengers an unparalleled experience in air-conditioned, sealed capsules that can accommodate up to 25 people. As the wheel rotates, visitors will enjoy breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Mumbai’s cityscape, coastlines, and the bustling waterfront—a sight that promises to rival some of the world’s most iconic observation wheels. The concept of a giant observation wheel is not new to Mumbai. The idea was first mooted in 2011 by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), and in 2023, it was revived by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).
The initial proposal even suggested Bandra Reclamation as a potential site. However, it faced opposition from local residents over concerns about traffic congestion and environmental impact, particularly due to restrictions from the Ministry of Environment and Forests. As a result, the plan was shelved once again. Now, with the BMC taking the reins, this marks the third attempt at making Mumbai’s dream of a landmark observation wheel a reality. If successful, the Mumbai Eye could play a pivotal role in elevating the city’s tourism appeal, serving as a major attraction for both locals and international visitors alike. Similar to the London Eye, which has become a symbol of the British capital since its completion in 2000, the Mumbai Eye could help position the city as a global destination for tourists, offering a unique perspective of its iconic skyline and waterfront.
Beyond tourism, the project promises to contribute significantly to Mumbai’s economy. By attracting both visitors and investors, it could generate employment and further elevate the city’s standing on the global tourism map. It also holds the potential to become an iconic fixture in Mumbai’s cultural and architectural landscape, redefining the city’s waterfront and its appeal to future generations. With BMC now spearheading this vision, Mumbai’s iconic observation wheel might just be one step closer to becoming a reality, marking a new chapter in the city’s journey to become a global metropolis.