On April 21, 2025, the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT) commenced operations, marking a significant advancement in India's maritime infrastructure.
Inaugurated by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, the terminal is designed to accommodate up to 1 million passengers annually, with a daily capacity of approximately 10,000 travelers. MICT can berth 5 cruise ships simultaneously, each up to 300 meters in length, with an 11-meter draft. The facility spans over 415,000 square feet (38,555 m2) and includes 72 check-in and immigration counters. The project was developed at a cost of ₹556 crore (US$65M).
In conjunction with the terminal's inauguration, Minister Sonowal oversaw the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for infrastructure projects exceeding ₹5,700 crore at the proposed Vadhavan Port in Maharashtra's Palghar district. The agreements encompass:
- a ₹4,200 crore investment for a terminal handling container, bulk, and liquid cargo.
- a ₹1,000 crore investment for a dedicated terminal for bulk and liquid cargo.
- a ₹500 crore investment for a liquid cargo jetty and a tank farm with a capacity of 300,000 cubic meters for liquefied chemicals.
These developments are integral to India's Cruise Bharat Mission and the broader Sagarmala initiative, aiming to enhance the nation's maritime capabilities and position India as a prominent global cruise and cargo hub.