Maharashtra ports minister Nitesh Rane announced plans for a water metro in Mumbai, modeled after Kochi’s eco-friendly system. A detailed project report is expected soon, with battery-powered ferries set to connect parts of the Mumbai metropolitan region to ease road and rail traffic

Nitish Rane. File Pic
The Maharashtra government has begun planning the launch of a water metro service in Mumbai, with assistance from Kochi Water Metro officials, according to PTI. Ports Minister Nitesh Rane stated that Kochi, home to India's first water metro system, has been tasked with preparing a detailed project report (DPR) for Mumbai. The DPR is expected to be submitted by the end of the month.
As per PTI, Rane revealed that a special purpose vehicle (SPV) will be established to implement the project, in partnership with the Union government on a 50:50 equity basis. He noted that while Mumbai is a city made up of seven islands, its waterways have remained vastly underused. The proposed water metro aims to ease the strain on Mumbai’s congested roads and suburban railway network, while also offering a boost to tourism.