On 20th September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT), a landmark project aimed at positioning Mumbai as a premier centre for global cruise tourism.
Located at Indira Dock and developed by the Mumbai Port Authority, the project reflects the government’s commitment to modernising India’s maritime infrastructure and boosting the tourism sector.
JM Baxi & Company and Bollard Pier Port Private Limited built the ₹556-crore MICT under the public–private partnership (PPP) model.
Spanning 4.15 lakh square feet, the terminal handles vessels up to 300 metres long with an 11-metre draft.
The facility boasts 72 check-in and immigration counters, 22 lifts, 10 escalators, and an environmentally friendly design.
Though operations commenced in April 2025, the official inauguration by PM Modi will mark the terminal’s full activation as a global gateway.
Transforming Tourism and Economy
Designed to handle one million passengers annually, including 10,000 travellers per day, the terminal can berth up to five cruise ships simultaneously.
Experts highlight that this expansion will significantly enhance Mumbai’s profile as a coastal tourism destination, while generating employment opportunities and encouraging maritime trade.
In the last financial year, Mumbai recorded 20 international and 71 domestic cruise calls, with around two lakh passengers.
With the new facility, this number is expected to rise dramatically, boosting both tourism and the local economy.
The initiative aligns with PM Modi’s vision of transforming India into a key player in the Asia-Pacific cruise tourism market.
Modern Amenities and Attractions
The MICT is not only a transport hub but also a lifestyle and leisure destination. Its upper levels will feature retail outlets, dining areas, and waterfront entertainment zones, making it a year-round attraction for both cruise passengers and local visitors.
This development will strengthen Mumbai’s position as a global coastal tourism hotspot, comparable to international destinations such as Miami.
The inauguration of MICT is part of a larger development agenda, with PM Modi also set to launch projects worth ₹34,200 crore in Gujarat.
Together, these initiatives reflect a nationwide strategy to expand maritime infrastructure, promote sustainable tourism, and boost India’s economy through integrated growth.
With the inauguration of MICT, Mumbai is poised to emerge as a premier cruise hub in Asia.
The facility’s modern amenities, large-scale capacity, and integration with local tourism promise to create a vibrant ecosystem for travellers, businesses, and the city’s economy.
PM Modi’s vision places Mumbai firmly on the global cruise map, setting the stage for a new era of maritime growth and international connectivity.
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