BMC Invites Bids for Development of Helipad at Worli Jetty on Mumbai Coastal Road
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has officially invited bids for the development of a helipad at the Worli jetty along the Mumbai Coastal Road (South) on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) basis. This strategic initiative aims to enhance urban infrastructure and connectivity in India's financial capital.
Key Features and Purpose of the Worli Jetty Helipad
The proposed helipad is designed to accommodate medium-class helicopters and is expected to serve multiple critical functions. According to civic officials, the primary purposes include:
- Medical and emergency evacuation (MEDEVAC) to provide swift response during health crises.
- Coastal surveillance, exercises, and patrolling to bolster national security activities.
- Support for national disaster relief forces during natural calamities.
- Facilitation of VVIP and VIP movements for official and governmental needs.
- Any other activities in the interest of public or government agencies.
The tender document emphasizes that the helipad will create better connectivity, supporting these essential services and integrating seamlessly with the coastal road infrastructure.
PPP Model and Revenue Sharing Details
The development will be executed under a PPP model with a revenue-sharing arrangement. The firm appointed for this project is expected to share revenue from take-off and landing operations. Civic officials have outlined the financial terms:
- A fixed monthly revenue of Rs 1 lakh must be paid to the BMC.
- Additionally, a percentage of revenue from helicopter landing and take-off movements will be shared.
A civic official stated, "We are expecting a lot of private parties to use the Worli Jetty helipad for their requirements, and accordingly, we have fixed the monthly revenue and a percentage of revenue from helicopter landing and take-off movements." This model is anticipated to attract private investment while ensuring public benefit.
Development Requirements and Compliance Standards
The firm entering into the PPP with BMC will have several responsibilities to ensure the helipad meets high standards. Key requirements include:
- Incorporating aesthetic elements to beautify the Worli Jetty area, enhancing the public view.
- Preparing detailed architectural and engineering designs for the helipad and associated facilities.
- Ensuring compliance with Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) guidelines, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, and other statutory aviation requirements.
- Developing proper landing and take-off zones, lighting, navigation aids, supporting infrastructure, safety and fire-fighting systems, and ground handling and fueling facilities.
These measures are part of the project to ensure safety, functionality, and integration with the coastal road.
Contract Duration and Structural Stability
The PPP agreement will be for a period of 15 years, with an option to extend for a further 15 years on mutually agreed terms. This long-term commitment aims to provide stability and encourage investment in the infrastructure.
Earlier, the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-Bombay) submitted a report certifying the structural stability of the jetty for the development of the helipad. This certification underscores the feasibility and safety of the project, paving the way for its implementation.
This development marks a significant step in enhancing Mumbai's emergency response capabilities and urban connectivity, leveraging private sector expertise through a collaborative PPP framework.
