June 19, 2025: A comprehensive feasibility report has revealed that Mumbai’s ambitious passenger waterway network—comprising 75 eco-friendly boats and 29 passenger jetty terminals—can be made operational within just 28 months, provided necessary approvals are obtained promptly after awarding the contract.
Prepared by consultants appointed to assess the viability of the project, the report outlines a plan capable of handling up to 1.63 lakh boat trips annually. This infrastructure could serve between 1 crore and 1.63 crore passengers by 2031, assuming a minimum boat capacity of 100 passengers.
Among the ten proposed routes, Route No. 6—Vasai-Marve-Nariman Point (61 km)—has emerged as the most commercially viable. It is followed closely by Route No. 9—Belapur-Gateway-Mandwa (38 km)—which links Navi Mumbai, the upcoming international airport, and Alibaug to Mumbai. Other promising corridors include Vasai-Mira Bhayandar-Gaimukh-Nagale (17 km) and Kalher-Kolshet-Mulund-Airoli-Vashi-Gateway (50 km), both of which are projected to yield an internal rate of return (IRR) of approximately 20%.
According to the report by Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL)—a key partner in the successful Kochi Water Metro initiative—most routes show potential for profitability. However, Routes 1, 8, and 10 have been flagged as less feasible. For Route 7, the consultants recommend a viability gap funding (VGF) of 60% to ensure sustainability.
In response to the findings, Maharashtra’s Minister for Ports and Waterways, Nitesh Rane, has instructed the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) to expand the number of jetty terminals at key locations including Juhu, Bandra, Versova, Mahim, Worli, and Kandivli. This move aims to enhance accessibility and encourage Mumbaikars to embrace water-based transport as a sustainable alternative to road and rail commuting.
Source: Times Of India
