Mumbai Eye: BMC plans to build giant ferris wheel in the city, inspired by London Eye

In what promises to be a major addition to the skyline, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has just given a green light to Mumbai Eye project in its 2025 budget. 

According to reports, this Mumbai Eye would be built under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model at a yet-to-be-determined location. Modelled after the London Eye, a 135-metre ferris wheel located on the banks of the River Thames, the Mumbai Eye would feature air-conditioned, sealed passenger capsules, each capable of holding 25 people. The wheel would rotate to provide an elevated view of the city.

It’s not the first time that Mumbai has flirted with the idea of its own giant ferris wheel. The concept was first pitched in 2011 by Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), but it never took off. In 2023, Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) suggested a spot at Bandra Reclamation promenade as the location for the project. However, the proposal sparked fierce opposition from local residents of Bandra Reclamation, who weren’t thrilled with the idea of having a towering wheel in the neighbourhood. 

Now, with BMC stepping in, could third time be the charm? If the project does go ahead, Mumbai would join a growing list of cities around the world that have been inspired by the London Eye.