Mumbai : PM Modi inaugurates Mumbai International Cruise Terminal to strengthen India’s tourism sector and provide a modern facility for cruise travelers. The new terminal will enhance cruise tourism, improve passenger experiences, and boost India’s global appeal in maritime travel.
The Mumbai Port Authority leads India’s cruise tourism growth, handling nearly 2.5 lakh passengers annually post-Covid and welcoming around 100 domestic and international cruise calls each year.
Addressing the event, PM Modi said, “21st-century India sees the ocean as a huge opportunity. A little while ago, we inaugurated several projects worth thousands of crores to accelerate port development. Today, we also inaugurated an International Cruise Terminal in Mumbai to promote cruise tourism.”
Under the Cruise Bharat Mission launched in September 2024 by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, MbPA developed the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT) to global standards, aiming to strengthen India’s position on the international cruise map.
Adesh Titarmare, Deputy Chairman of Mumbai Port Authority, said the terminal reflects the Prime Minister’s vision of offering a cruise experience to every citizen. Speaking to IANS, he added, “We handle over 100 cruise calls per year and serve more than 1.5 lakh passengers. With this new terminal, we expect even more travelers, especially youth, to enjoy cruise services.”
As part of the national action plan to modernize cruise tourism infrastructure, the old 25,000 sq ft terminal shed at Ballard Pier has been transformed into India’s largest world-class cruise terminal.
The project cost Rs 556 crore, covering a built-up area of 4,15,000 sq ft. It can handle 1 million passengers annually and accommodate up to five ships simultaneously, Adesh Titarmare mentioned.
During the programme, the Chairperson of MbPA and the CEO of MMB signed an MoU to develop a mega shipbuilding cluster in Maharashtra.
The event highlighted major advances in India’s maritime and shipbuilding sector, unveiling initiatives to expand shipbuilding capacity. It also showcased Mumbai Port Authority’s integrated approach, combining infrastructure growth, environmental sustainability, and cultural heritage preservation.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of State Shantanu Thakur, Secretary T.K. Ramachandran, Special Secretary Rajesh Kumar Sinha, and Joint Secretary R. Lakshmanan attended the event.
–IANS
