The proposed Mumbai Water Metro project has gained momentum after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis directed officials to expedite its implementation across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The initiative aims to strengthen water-based passenger transport and ease pressure on the city’s congested road and rail networks.
During a high-level review meeting at Vidhan Bhavan, Fadnavis emphasised that the project will be rolled out in three phases. He instructed authorities to identify suitable land parcels for setting up shipyards and highlighted the importance of building vessels within Maharashtra to ensure better planning and quality control.
State Fisheries and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane confirmed that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has already been prepared and submitted for approval. He noted that efforts are underway to accelerate execution, drawing comparisons with the rapid expansion of Mumbai’s metro rail network.
Officials also outlined proposals for strengthening maritime infrastructure, including the development of waterways, ports, and passenger transport facilities. Plans include establishing shipyards at Nandgaon, Dighi, and Vijaydurg, along with a greenfield shipbuilding cluster within the MMR to support long-term operations.
The Water Metro project is expected to transform urban mobility by offering a cleaner and more efficient transport alternative. By leveraging Mumbai’s extensive coastline and waterways, the initiative aims to reduce traffic congestion while promoting environmentally friendly commuting options.
Once implemented, the project could significantly improve connectivity across the region, providing faster travel routes and easing the burden on existing infrastructure for thousands of daily commuters.
Source: The Free Press Journal
