The state-run Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) would soon invite tenders for a passenger water transport system along the east and west coasts of Mumbai.
The project would be implemented on a cash-on-contract basis instead of a build-operate-transfer model. Under this model, MSRDC would make the investment and carry out construction of jetties and terminals through the appointment of contractors. The state undertaking would also invite bids for the appointment of operators of the proposed system. This is one of the projects lined up by the Maharashtra government with an investment of Rs 1,00,035 crore to improve the city’s infrastructure.
The project on the west coast would cover Borivali, Marve, Versova, Juhu, Bandra and Nariman Point. The eastern coast project would be between Ferry Wharf and Nerul, and include Rewas, Mandwa and JNPT. MSRDC plans to introduce a roll-on, roll-off service to move vehicles from one point to the other.
MSRDC executive engineer Subhash Nage told Business Standard: “The project is being finalised and tenders will be issued in two to three weeks. Passenger water transport along western coast is estimated at Rs 750 crore while Rs 500 crore will be required for eastern coast project.”
The Lousi Berger Group, appointed as the consultants last year, was in the midst of completion of a detailed feasibility study.
MSRDC has revived the project as its earlier attempt to carry out the project on a BOT basis in August 2010 had failed.
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MSRDC had awarded a Rs 1,200-crore contract for passenger water transport between Nariman Point and Borivali to Pratibha Industries but the project could not take off following issues between the concessionaire and MSRDC over various works. Besides, opposition parties had raised serious objections to the acceptance of a single bid and the capability of the concessionaire.
A state government official, who did not want to be identified, said that the passenger water transport system was an environment-friendly mode of transport and would result in significant savings in travel time due to reduced traffic congestion. Further, it would lead to savings in vehicle operating cost due to reduction in congestion.
According to the official, there would be reduction in air and noise pollution along the corridors.