Mumbai is set to get its own version of the London Eye, as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has proposed the construction of the Mumbai Eye in its 2025 Budget. This ambitious project aims to transform the city’s skyline and boost tourism by offering breathtaking panoramic views of Mumbai.
A Project with a Long History
The idea of the Mumbai Eye was originally conceived by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) in 2011, but the project failed to materialize. Over the years, different government bodies attempted to revive it, with the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) taking over in 2023.
MMRDA planned to build the Mumbai Eye at Bandra Reclamation, inviting bids for a project management consultant and preparing a technical feasibility report. However, the plan was scrapped due to strong opposition from local residents over traffic congestion concerns and environmental restrictions imposed by the Ministry of Environment and Forests.
Now, BMC has stepped in as the third agency to take charge, determined to bring this vision to life through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
Inspired by the London Eye
The Mumbai Eye is designed to be a world-class observation wheel, drawing inspiration from the London Eye, which has become an iconic landmark in the UK.
Key Features of Mumbai Eye:
• Air-conditioned, sealed passenger capsules for comfort
• Capacity of 25 passengers per capsule
• 360-degree panoramic views of Mumbai’s skyline
• Designed to become a global attraction
If successfully executed, the Mumbai Eye will offer visitors a chance to experience an elevated view of the bustling city, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the project is ambitious, its success depends on finding a suitable location, addressing environmental concerns, and ensuring smooth execution. With BMC now leading the initiative, there is renewed hope that Mumbai will finally get its own iconic Ferris wheel.
Will the Mumbai Eye become a reality this time? Only time will tell, but if completed, it could redefine Mumbai’s tourism landscape and add a spectacular new attraction to the city’s skyline.
