• Source:JND
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Kochi Metro: Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has submitted a feasibility study to launch a Water Metro system across Mumbai, aiming to ease traffic and improve public transport in the city. The report, presented to Maharashtra Ports and Fisheries Minister Nitish Rane, proposes a 250-kilometre waterway network covering the entire Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).

Inspired by Kochi Model: 10 Routes, 29 Terminals Proposed

The proposed project, modelled on the Kochi Water Metro, outlines 10 routes and 29 terminals connecting key water bodies such as Vaitarna, Vasai, Manori, Thane, Panvel and Karanja creeks. According to KMRL officials, the study was completed in record time and also includes recommendations for passenger amenities, boat procurement and necessary infrastructure at jetty terminals.

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DPR Preparations To Begin, Says Minister Rane

Minister Rane, during a high-level meeting on Monday, directed the concerned departments to begin preparations for the Detailed Project Report (DPR). He stated that metro terminals should be developed in a way that they can be easily integrated with existing transport systems, just like land-based metro stations. The estimated cost of the entire project is around Rs 2,500 crore.

Bandra To Navi Mumbai: High Potential Routes Identified

The Times Of India report cited Rane as stating that, the huge potential of water transport in areas such as Bandra, Worli, Versova, South Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. He said routes should be selected based on maximum benefit and passenger load. The minister also stressed that fares must be affordable for daily commuters.

Project Aims to Reduce Travel Time And Ease Congestion

The Water Metro is expected to ease congestion on Mumbai’s roads, trains, and buses, and reduce travel time, especially between North and South Mumbai and from Navi Mumbai to the city centre. If implemented, this could become a reliable alternative to the city’s overstretched land transport networks.

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KMRL Team Led Presentation Before Maharashtra Officials

The feasibility report was presented by KMRL’s consultancy division, led by Chief General Manager Shaji P Janardhanan. KMRL is currently carrying out similar studies in 21 cities across 11 states and two Union Territories as assigned by the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

KMRL Eyes National Role In Urban Water Transport

The consultancy wing of KMRL is emerging as a major player in urban transport planning, with a growing reputation similar to that of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) in the metro rail sector. If the DPR and execution of the Mumbai Water Metro are handed over to KMRL, the agency could significantly expand its national footprint in sustainable urban water transport.