Maharashtra is set to introduce an eco-friendly water metro system in Mumbai, marking a significant shift towards greener mobility solutions in India’s financial capital.
Drawing inspiration from the success of Kochi’s pioneering water metro, a detailed project report (DPR) is currently being prepared, with the final draft expected by the end of this month. Authorities have indicated that a special purpose vehicle (SPV) will spearhead the project implementation in collaboration with the Union government, structured around an equitable 50:50 partnership model.
Mumbai, historically shaped by its seven islands, has seldom leveraged its natural waterways for mass transportation, despite the growing urban pressure on roads and railways. The proposed water metro is poised to change this paradigm, aiming not only to decongest traffic but also to provide a low-emission, scenic alternative for daily commuters and tourists alike. The project will deploy battery-operated ferries to link various parts of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), aligning perfectly with India’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions and promoting climate-resilient infrastructure.
also read :https://urbanacres.in/mumbai-metro-to-build-rs-4341-crore-foot-over-bridge/
Potential corridors identified for the initial phase stretch across strategic nodes such as Narangi, Vasai, Mira Bhayander, Fountain Jetty, Gaimukh, Nagale, Kolset, Kalher, Mumbra, Kalyan, Vashi, Mulund, Airoli, Borivali, and the Gateway of India, among others. Plans include 21 proposed stations along the Vaitarna River, Vasai Creek, Thane Creek, Manori Creek, Panvel Creek, and the Mumbai Port Trust waters. The first phase will exclusively focus on launching the water metro service, while the second phase will introduce a Ro-Ro (roll-on roll-off) system, facilitating seamless multi-modal integration with the city’s broader transport network.
In designing the system, engineers are addressing unique local challenges, particularly tidal fluctuations of up to 3.5 metres, to ensure operational efficiency and year-round accessibility. Notably, the project is expected to fill critical gaps in passenger connectivity, especially across areas underserved by existing rail and road infrastructure. Complementary developments such as new access roads are also planned to bolster last-mile connectivity, enhancing the overall commuter experience.
The water metro also opens up avenues for boosting Mumbai’s tourism sector. A separate tourism circuit linking historical forts, bird-watching centres, water parks, and religious sites is under consideration, highlighting the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Regular maintenance and cleaning of water bodies will be integral to preserving the eco-sensitive routes, setting a benchmark for sustainable urban tourism models across India.Looking further ahead, the upcoming Navi Mumbai airport is envisioned to integrate seamlessly with the water metro system. Plans are underway to establish a dedicated terminal near the airport, introducing India’s first-ever airport-linked water taxi service. Discussions between the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO), Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), and other stakeholders are already advancing towards finalising the project blueprint.As Mumbai readies itself for this transformative leap, the water metro initiative stands out not merely as an infrastructural addition but as a powerful symbol of a city reclaiming its waterways in pursuit of a greener, more inclusive, and sustainable urban future.
also read : https://urbanacres.in/kochi-metro-expertise-to-power-goa-water-taxi-push/
Mumbai eyes sustainable future with water metro
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