Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT) at Ballard Pier today, September 20, 2025, marking a significant boost to India's maritime infrastructure and positioning Mumbai as a premier global cruise tourism hub. Developed under the 'Cruise Bharat Mission,' this state-of-the-art terminal at Indira Dock is poised to enhance India's maritime infrastructure and become a leading hub for cruise tourism in Asia.
Key Features and Design
The MICT, spanning over 415,000 square feet, is designed to handle up to 1 million passengers annually. It has the capacity to accommodate five cruise ships simultaneously, handling approximately 10,000 passengers per day. To ensure a seamless and efficient experience for travelers, the terminal is equipped with 72 check-in and immigration counters. Moreover, it includes parking facilities for more than 300 vehicles. The terminal's design incorporates a wavy ceiling, reflecting its maritime identity, combined with functional and minimalist architecture. The interiors also feature blue-colored benches, drawing inspiration from the surrounding waters. The total investment in the MICT project is ₹556 crores.
Aims and Objectives
The Mumbai International Cruise Terminal is expected to bolster India's cruise tourism sector, attracting both domestic and international tourists and contributing to the nation's economic growth. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, emphasized the terminal's importance, stating that it aligns with Prime Minister Modi's vision of transforming India into a global cruise hub through state-of-the-art infrastructure. The MICT is developed as per the latest global standards and is expected to take a pioneering role in developing cruise tourism in India. The Cruise Bharat Mission, under which the MICT was developed, promotes three categories of tourism: Ocean and Harbour Cruises, River and Inland Cruises, and Island and Lighthouse Cruises.
Additional Initiatives
In addition to the terminal, several other initiatives have been inaugurated, including the renovated Fire Memorial at Victoria Docks, heritage lighting at Port House and Evelyn House, and the Sagar Upvan garden. These projects aim to promote cultural tourism and environmental sustainability in the region.
Broader Maritime Development
The inauguration of the MICT is part of a larger effort to develop India's maritime sector. On September 20, 2025, PM Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for multiple development projects related to the maritime sector worth over ₹7,870 crore. These include a new container terminal and related facilities at Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port in Kolkata, a new container berth and cargo handling facilities at Paradip Port, and the Tuna Tekra Multi-Cargo Terminal. Foundation stones will also be laid for firefighting facilities and modern road links at Kamarajar Port in Ennore and coastal protection measures at Chennai Port. Furthermore, PM Modi will attend the 'Samudra se Samriddhi' event in Gujarat, where he will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for development projects worth over ₹34,200 crore in Bhavnagar.
