Mumbai could soon sail into a new era of transportation with its very own water metro, inspired by Kochi’s successful model. Aiming to provide a cleaner and quicker alternative to the city’s jam-packed roads and crowded trains, the Maharashtra government is pushing forward with the plan. Ports Minister Nitesh Rane announced that battery-powered ferries will be introduced to ease urban travel.
To move things along, officials from the Kochi Water Metro have been tasked with preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to assess the project’s feasibility.
Water metro to ease traffic and boost tourism
Maharashtra Ports Minister pointed out that although Mumbai is made up of seven islands, its waterways have never been fully utilised. He added that tapping into these waterways could significantly ease the burden on the city’s roads and suburban trains.
In its first phase, the project will set up a water metro linking 21 key locations, including Narangi, Vasai, Mira Bhayander, Mulund, and the Gateway of India, along the Vaitarna River and through Vasai and Thane. Later, a Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) service for vehicles will also be introduced. With tidal differences of up to 3.5 metres, the system will be specially designed to handle Mumbai’s coastal conditions.
Beyond easing commuter woes, the initiative also aims to boost tourism, hinting at new circuits linking historic Vasai fort, bird sanctuaries and waterfront parks. A water metro terminal near the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport is also in the pipeline, promising India’ s first water taxi service. If implemented, the water metro could transform urban mobility offering Mumbaikars a scenic, eco-friendly commute.
