The Union government has approved a Rs 8.87 billion plan to develop a world-class marina at Mumbai Harbour, aimed at boosting coastal shipping, maritime tourism and waterfront-led urban development in India’s financial capital. The proposed Viksit Bharat Mumbai Marina has been cleared by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to create global-standard tourism destinations and strengthen the maritime economy. The project will be developed over nearly 12 hectares of seawater area and will have the capacity to berth 424 yachts of up to 30 metres in length. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said the project marks a major step towards placing Mumbai on the global maritime tourism map. He said the marina would create world-class infrastructure, open up the waterfront for public use, encourage private investment and generate employment, while advancing India’s broader blue economy goals. The marina will be developed under a hybrid model. The Mumbai Port Authority will invest about Rs 4.7 billion to build the core marina infrastructure on an engineering, procurement and construction basis, while a private developer will invest around Rs 4.17 billion to create onshore facilities. The ministry has approved the port authority’s investment, and tenders have already been issued, with bids due to close on December 29, 2025. Sonowal said the project is expected to strengthen maritime tourism, attract private capital and generate more than 2,000 jobs across allied sectors, while opening up new opportunities in coastal and blue economy activities. The marine infrastructure will include an approach trestle, piled breakwater, service platforms, pontoons and gangways to ensure safe and efficient yacht operations. Onshore facilities planned by the private operator include a marina terminal building, a Namo Bharat International Sailing School, a maritime tourism development centre, hotel and clubhouse facilities, a skill development centre, and yacht stacking and repair infrastructure. The project aligns with national initiatives such as Maritime India Vision 2030, Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, the Sagarmala Programme and the Cruise Bharat Mission, as well as the Mumbai Port Authority’s Port Master Plan 2047. Once operational, the marina is expected to significantly enhance public access to Mumbai’s waterfront and reinforce the city’s status as a major hub for maritime tourism and cruise traffic.