STN: Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has submitted the feasibility study report for the Mumbai Water Metro project to the Maharashtra Government. The report was shared on 16 June 2025.
The study was handed over by KMRL’s consultancy team. Maharashtra Ports Minister Nitish Rane received the report. The Minister asked the concerned departments to begin work on the next steps. He also confirmed that the government would soon start the detailed project report (DPR).
Mumbai Water Metro Project Will Connect Major Waterways
The findings of the study were discussed in a high-level meeting in Mumbai. Minister Nitish Rane chaired the meeting. KMRL’s Chief General Manager, Shaji P. Janardhanan, led the team during the presentation. Other senior officials from Kochi Metro were also present.
The report explains that the Mumbai Water Metro will connect several parts of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The proposed routes will include major creeks such as Vaitarna, Vasai, Manori, Thane, Panvel, and Karanja. These connections will help form a 250-kilometre waterway network.
KMRL has suggested 29 terminals for the project. These terminals will be served by 10 routes. The network will aim to improve water-based public transport across the MMR.
Kochi Metro Expands Consultancy Role Nationally
This project marks a significant achievement for Kochi Metro Rail Limited. It is the first time KMRL won a consultancy assignment through a competitive process. The success shows KMRL’s growing role as a national-level consultancy in urban transport.
The state government may soon assign KMRL to prepare the detailed project report. That decision is expected in the coming weeks.
At present, Kochi Metro is also working on similar studies for other cities. These include 21 cities across 11 states and 2 Union Territories. The Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has given KMRL this responsibility.
Next Steps for Mumbai Water Metro
The Mumbai Water Metro aims to provide faster and cleaner transport through waterways. Once the DPR is completed and approved, work on terminals and routes will begin. The goal is to decongest Mumbai’s roads and offer alternative transport modes.
Water metro systems are expected to complement rail and road transport. If successful, this project could serve as a model for other Indian cities.
Conclusion
The submission of the feasibility report is a major milestone. With approval from the Maharashtra Government, the Mumbai Water Metro project is one step closer to reality. KMRL’s role in this project highlights its capability in leading urban transport innovations across India.
