Mumbai’s plans to improve transport links and expand its waterfront infrastructure could move a step closer this week. Two major proposals are set to be reviewed by the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA), which will decide whether they can proceed to the next stage of the approval process. On the agenda are the proposed Nariman Point-Cuffe Parade sea bridge and a marina-cum-inland water transport terminal at Cuffe Parade. Both developments require Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance before any construction-related work can begin.
MCZMA meeting on July 23 to determine the next phase of both South Mumbai projects
The two proposals are scheduled to be discussed during MCZMA’s 200th meeting on July 23. The authority examines projects falling within coastal regulation areas before recommending or granting the necessary environmental permissions under the CRZ framework. One proposal has been submitted by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) for a road link connecting Nariman Point with Colaba and Cuffe Parade. The second concerns an Inland Water Transport Terminal with an integrated marina at Cuffe Parade, proposed by Rashmi Development Private Limited.
Proposed Nariman Point-Cuffe Parade bridge aims to cut travel time to around five minutes
Originally conceived in 2008, the bridge is intended to provide a direct connection between Nariman Point and Cuffe Parade, easing pressure on existing roads in South Mumbai. If completed, the route is expected to reduce travel time between the two locations to nearly five minutes.
The project is also planned as a link to the Mumbai Coastal Road through the Princess Street interchange. Current plans include pedestrian-friendly features such as a promenade, a cycling track, a viewing deck and a jetty alongside the transport corridor.
Environmental approvals delayed construction after earlier plans stalled in 2022
Although the bridge reached the tender stage in 2022, work never commenced. Earlier environmental approvals expired and the project also faced objections from members of the fishing community, who raised concerns about possible effects on fishing activities and the surrounding marine environment. Fresh CRZ clearance is now required before the project can proceed further.
Cuffe Parade marina proposal includes water transport hub and tourism facilities
The second proposal focuses on developing a marina integrated with an inland water transport terminal at Cuffe Parade. The project is intended to support marine tourism, recreational boating and water-based mobility in Mumbai. According to the submitted plans, the development would include a yacht club, executive lounges, conference facilities, restaurants, retail spaces and an art gallery. Other proposed features include a helipad, seaplane operations, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) infrastructure and serviced apartments overlooking the Arabian Sea. Visitors to a planned offshore floating hotel would be able to reach the property by speedboat, helicopter or seaplane.
