Following the success of India’s first water metro in Kochi, Mumbai is poised to introduce its own version of the eco-friendly transit system. Kerala’s Kochi Water Metro has been tasked with presenting a detailed project report (DPR) for the Mumbai project, according to Maharashtra Ports Minister Nitesh Rane.

The DPR is expected by the end of April, and a special purpose vehicle (SPV) will be created to implement the project in partnership with the Union government on a 50:50 equity basis. "The water metro project will improve urban transportation and boost tourism in the country's financial capital. Kochi Water Metro is assisting the Maharashtra government. Under it, battery-powered ferries will connect various parts of the Mumbai metropolitan region (MMR)," the Minister said.

The proposed Mumbai routes span several key corridors in the MMR, including Narangi-Kharwadeswari, Vasai-Mira Bhayander, Fountain Jetty-Gaimukh-Nagale, and more. Other routes connect vital locations like the Domestic Cruise Terminal (Bhaucha Dhakka), Gateway of India, Mandwa, Borivali, Gorai, and Panvel.

The project will also integrate with multi-modal transport systems to enhance last-mile connectivity. "There are 21 proposed locations for stations along the Vaitarna River, Vasai, Thane, Manori and Panvel creeks and Mumbai Port Trust waters. The project's first phase will have a water metro, while the second will have a Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) service. Through the water metro, multi-modal integration can be implemented," the Minister informed. "The system will be designed to accommodate the tidal differences of 3 to 3.5 metres," he further said, underlining its technical feasibility.

Kochi became India’s pioneer in water metro infrastructure with the launch of its first boat in December 2023, offering residents a clean, scenic, and smooth commuting alternative.