Mumbai’s Eastern Waterfront set for Rs 22,672 crore transformation with new marina, convention centre, cruise facilities and more

The announcement came after a detailed review of ongoing and proposed projects at the Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA).

An official statement said that the plan aims to position Mumbai as a leading maritime destination by 2047, supporting both port operations and urban development.

The transformation strategy will follow strengthening core cargo operations and repurposing unused port land for tourism, business and public spaces, the statement said.

"The plan is aligned with national initiatives such as the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, Cruise Bharat Mission, and NITI Aayog’s Mumbai Metropolitan Region Growth Hub Plan," the statement said.

Boosting cargo capacity to 150 million tonnes

It said that Mumbai Port aims to reach a cargo handling capacity of 150 million tonnes per year by 2047, mainly through offshore liquid bulk cargo including crude oil, petroleum products, LNG and chemicals.

"Under the dynamic leadership of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is moving decisively towards becoming one of the world’s foremost maritime nations. The Rs 22,672-crore transformation of Mumbai’s Eastern Waterfront is central to that journey — strengthening maritime self-reliance, expanding trade and tourism, and creating globally benchmarked waterfront infrastructure. The initiative aligns with the goals of Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat while establishing Mumbai as a global maritime and blue economy hub," Sarbananda Sonowal said.

The key projects include reclamation and shore protection works, a sixth oil berth with a capacity of 22 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) at Jawahar Dweep, new anchorage facilities for bulk cargo and new marina and sailing school.

A major project is the Viksit Bharat Mumbai Marina, planned as India’s largest marina with an investment of Rs 887 crore. It will be developed through a hybrid EPC-PPP model, the statement said.

Alongside, the Namo Bharat International Sailing School will provide structured sailing education and expand access to water sports.

New convention centre

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Convention Centre at Princes’ Dock is expected to cost Rs 5,500 crore and will be developed on a PPP basis. The facility will aim to attract national and international conferences and events, strengthening Mumbai’s MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) sector.

Cruise and passenger infra upgrades

Mumbai Port is also upgrading cruise and passenger facilities, including RoPax Terminal at M-Shed, Bhaucha Dhakka Glass House and Passenger Terminal and Domestic Cruise Terminal for major events.

A new fish jetty at Mallet Bunder will be built at Rs 132 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana. This will increase fishing trawler capacity from 300 to over 1,200 vessels and separate fishing operations from passenger movement, the statement said.

According to the statement the surrounding area will include themed streets, open-air dining zones and public spaces, and a 3.5-kilometre waterfront promenade.  Institutional infrastructure will also be upgraded with new Mumbai Port Administrative Building, Shivdurg Tower at Mallet Bunder and Central Government Office Complex at Cotton Green. These buildings will house key government offices and improve coordination.

Integration with city infrastructure

The Mumbai Port Authority will support major city projects including the Metro Line 11, Orange Gate-Marine Drive Tunnel and Radio Club Jetty. This will ensure the waterfront development is integrated with Mumbai’s wider transport network.

The project is expected to generate 5.5 lakh jobs create over 500 hectares of built-up maritime and blue economy space, and attract over 25 million annual visitors by 2047.

“The transformation of Mumbai’s Eastern Waterfront is a reflection of PM Modi’s long-term vision to place India among the world’s leading maritime nations. By integrating world-class port infrastructure, cruise and convention facilities, modern fisheries, skilling institutions and public waterfront spaces, we are unlocking new maritime opportunities that will drive jobs, trade and tourism. Mumbai’s resurgence as a maritime and blue economy hub will play a decisive role in India’s journey towards becoming a global leader in maritime services and logistics,” Sonowal said.

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