The Maharashtra government has started a Rs 1.5 billion (bn) electric boat manufacturing hub to support the Mumbai Water Metro. The facility is intended to fabricate, assemble and test battery electric vessels for scheduled services across the metropolitan water transit network. The announcement positions the state as a hub for maritime manufacturing that supports cleaner urban mobility. The project will align with state policies to boost clean tech and urban connectivity. The hub will integrate local suppliers and engineering firms to create an ecosystem for hull fabrication, propulsion systems and battery integration. It is expected to provide maintenance and retrofitting capabilities that can extend vessel life and streamline operations for the Water Metro project. The facility will also support training and skills development for technicians and engineers in electric marine systems. The initiative seeks to reduce reliance on imports and promote domestic manufacturing of zero emission craft. The investment underscores a policy shift towards electrified transport as authorities pursue reductions in emissions from urban commuting. State officials described the project as a strategic investment in sustainable infrastructure and a means to stimulate regional industrial growth. Officials expect the hub to attract ancillary investments and encourage research and development in marine electrification. The Rs 1.5 bn value reflects capital commitments to build capacity and upgrade supporting facilities. By colocating production with operational requirements, planners aim to shorten lead times for vessel delivery and improve fleet resilience. The manufacturing hub is expected to support scaling of services as the Mumbai Water Metro expands to meet passenger demand. Coordination with transport authorities aims to ensure timely integration of manufactured vessels into scheduled services. Observers said the move aligns with broader ambitions to develop integrated, low emission transport options for the metropolitan region.