Mumbai is set to witness a shift in its urban mobility landscape as the state government moves ahead with plans to introduce a Water Metro system. Designed as an alternative to crowded trains, buses and congested roads, the project aims to offer commuters a new mode of travel across the city and its neighbouring regions.
The proposal has entered an early execution stage, with the Maharashtra Maritime Board issuing its first tender under the transport and ports department. This development indicates that the initiative is progressing from planning to implementation.
The Mumbai Water Metro Project seeks to create an organised water-based transport network connecting Mumbai with Navi Mumbai, Thane, Kalyan, Vasai and Mira-Bhayandar. Given the city’s coastline and network of creeks, waterways are being positioned as a viable and environmentally sustainable commuting option that could help reduce travel time and traffic pressure.
In Phase 1, the plan includes 16 routes—eight existing ones to be upgraded and eight new routes to be introduced. Additionally, 26 terminals will be developed or modernised, along with supporting navigation and emergency infrastructure.
The push for water transport comes amid rising population levels, increasing congestion on roads, and heavy pressure on the suburban railway network, which continues to operate beyond capacity. Authorities view this expansion as a way to ease the burden on existing systems.
The tender invites proposals for appointing a consultant responsible for project management, design, procurement assistance, and supervision of terminal development and infrastructure.
Once operational, the system is expected to offer faster connectivity, reduce crowding on rail and road networks, and provide more structured and comfortable travel. It will also contribute to lowering emissions by shifting a portion of daily commuting to cleaner waterways.
Source: Financial Express
