Kochi Leads the Way, Mumbai Set to Ride the Water Metro

Following the success of India’s first water metro in Kochi, Mumbai is preparing to introduce its own eco-friendly water transit system. Kerala’s Kochi Water Metro team has been assigned to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) for the initiative, Maharashtra Ports Minister Nitesh Rane confirmed. The DPR is expected by the end of April.

The project will be implemented through a special purpose vehicle (SPV) jointly funded by the Maharashtra government and the Union government on a 50:50 equity basis. “The water metro will enhance urban mobility and promote tourism in Mumbai. Kochi Water Metro is guiding us on this project, which will use battery-powered ferries to connect different parts of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR),” said Rane.

Planned routes will link key corridors such as Narangi–Kharwadeswari, Vasai–Mira Bhayander, and Fountain Jetty–Gaimukh–Nagale, along with major hubs like the Domestic Cruise Terminal (Bhaucha Dhakka), Gateway of India, Mandwa, Borivali, Gorai, and Panvel.

The water metro will be integrated with existing transport systems to ensure seamless last-mile connectivity. A total of 21 stations are proposed across the Vaitarna River and the creeks of Vasai, Thane, Manori, and Panvel, as well as Mumbai Port Trust waters. The project’s first phase will feature water metro services, while the second phase will introduce Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) ferries.

The system is being engineered to handle tidal variations of up to 3.5 meters, ensuring smooth operations.

Kochi made history in December 2023 by launching India’s first water metro service, offering residents a clean, scenic, and efficient commuting option.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.