The initiative, led by the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), aims to ease road congestion and tap into the economic potential of coastal transport.
MUMBAI: Despite past failures of water transport services in Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) due to high fares and low demand, the state government is preparing to launch 10 new routes, including four linking the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA).
The initiative, led by the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), aims to ease road congestion and tap into the economic potential of coastal transport.
DPR by Kochi Water Metro
The Kochi Water Metro, which successfully operates inland water services in Kerala, will prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the 10 proposed routes, said Pradeep P. chief executive officer, MMB.
“We had floated a tender on two occasions seeking bids from organisations to conduct a study on the proposed routes. Both times, Kochi Water Metro was the sole bidder. Their appointment will likely be processed on Tuesday,” said Pradeep P.
The DPR will cover passenger surveys, travel demand analysis, terminal facility planning, and concept designs for jetties. Officials said the goal is to build a commuter-friendly water transport system, similars to services in cities like Sydney, New York, San Francisco, Bangkok, and Istanbul.
The DPR on the 10 new routes would also help upgrade services on the 21 existing routes, the official added.
Proposed Routes
- Vasai – Mira Bhayander – Fountain Junction – Gaimukh – Nagale – Kalher
- Kalyan – Mumbra – Kalher – Kolshet
- Kalher – Mulund – Airoli – Vashi – NMIA
- Vashi – NMIA
- Belapur – NMIA
- Gateway of India – NMIA
- Gateway of India – Vashi
- Vasai – Marve
- Borivali – Marve – Versova – Bandra
- Bandra – Worli – Nariman Point
 due to high fares and low demand, the state government is preparing to launch 10 new routes, including four linking the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA).){kind=link}