Two major infrastructure projects proposed for South Mumbai—the Nariman Point-Cuffe Parade sea bridge and the Inland Water Transport Terminal-cum-Marina at Cuffe Parade—are set to be considered by the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) on July 23 for Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance.
Environmental approval is a key requirement before work on either project can move forward.
One of the proposals relates to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority’s (MMRDA) planned 1.6-km sea bridge connecting Nariman Point with Colaba and Cuffe Parade. The project had progressed to the tender stage in 2022, with Larsen & Toubro selected as the contractor. However, construction was delayed due to opposition from sections of the fishing community, pending statutory approvals and the expiry of earlier environmental clearances.
The proposed bridge was first envisioned in 2008 as a missing link in South Mumbai’s road network. Once completed, it is expected to reduce travel time between Nariman Point and Cuffe Parade to approximately five minutes. At present, commuters rely on Captain Prakash Pethe Marg, navigating congested stretches through Madame Cama Road, Mantralaya, Fort and the Manora MLA Hostel area.
The bridge is also expected to improve connectivity with the Mumbai Coastal Road by providing a direct last-mile link to the Princess Street interchange. The project design includes public amenities such as a promenade, cycling track, viewing gallery and a jetty.
The second proposal before the MCZMA pertains to the development of an Inland Water Transport Terminal and Marina at Cuffe Parade, submitted by Rashmi Development Private Limited.
The proposed waterfront project aims to promote marine tourism, recreational boating and water-based transport in Mumbai through a multi-modal transport hub.
According to the proposal, the development will feature a marina building with a yacht club, executive lounges, conference facilities, restaurants, retail spaces and an art gallery. Additional features include a helipad, seaplane and electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) infrastructure, along with luxury serviced apartments overlooking the Arabian Sea.
The proposal also includes an offshore floating hotel that would be accessible through the terminal via speedboats, helicopters and seaplanes.
The MCZMA’s decision on July 23 is expected to play a significant role in determining the future of both projects, which seek to strengthen South Mumbai’s transport connectivity, waterfront infrastructure and marine tourism while complying with environmental regulations under the CRZ framework.
Source: The Free Press Journal
