Mumbai to Open New Passenger Jetty at Gateway of India by May 2026
Mumbai’s iconic Gateway of India is set to receive a transformative new passenger jetty and terminal, with construction expedited following a Bombay High Court green light. Expected to be operational by May 2026, this vital infrastructure project aims to significantly ease traffic congestion, enhance safety, and support future water transport initiatives, marking a pivotal step towards improved urban mobility and connectivity for the city.
The ambitious project, currently 20 percent complete, involves the construction of a modern terminal platform, a parking facility for 150 cars, a VIP waiting area, an amphitheatre (to be used solely for passenger seating), a food court, cafe (for water and packed food), and ticket counters. The Bombay High Court’s recent decision upheld the Maharashtra government’s construction plan, subject to specific conditions ensuring environmental compliance and restricting the use of certain facilities to passenger services. This judicial clearance paves the way for rapid progress on the long-awaited development.
The new jetty is designed to alleviate existing traffic bottlenecks around the Gateway of India, a perennial concern for both locals and tourists. By providing dedicated docking for up to 20 boats and off-street parking for 150 vehicles, it will free up valuable street space and enhance safety, addressing issues like minor accidents at the current jetties. Public officials have emphasised that this project is for broader public benefit, not private gain, affirming democratic rights while prioritising collective welfare.
A key strategic advantage of the new jetty is its enhanced intermodal connectivity. With the upcoming Navi Mumbai airport slated to commence commercial operations by September 30, the new jetty will offer a seamless 40-minute water transport link, significantly improving access for air travellers. This integration is part of a larger vision to develop a “water metro” system across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, modelled on successful systems like Kochi’s. Such water transport initiatives are expected to drastically reduce travel times, promoting sustainable and eco-friendly urban commuting.
This infrastructure development aligns strongly with the agenda of creating zero net carbon, eco-friendly, sustainable, gender-neutral, and equitable cities. By promoting water transport, the project encourages a shift away from more carbon-intensive road travel, contributing to reduced emissions and improved air quality. Enhanced connectivity benefits all segments of the population, providing more efficient and accessible transport options, thereby fostering greater social and economic equity across the sprawling metropolis.
The expedited construction of the new passenger jetty at the Gateway of India represents a significant leap forward in Mumbai’s urban development. By addressing critical transport needs, enhancing safety, and fostering intermodal connectivity, this project is poised to transform urban mobility. It stands as a testament to strategic planning that prioritises public welfare and sustainable growth, reinforcing Mumbai’s position as a forward-looking, resilient, and inclusive global city.
