Mumbai Port’s Hidden Maritime Heritage Is Now Open To The Public

Are you someone who’s super into maritime history and wish to know more about Mumbai’s legacy of a port city? Well, the Mumbai Port Trust (MbPT) has opened its doors to visitors to offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Mumbai Port. The Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) is collaborating with The Heritage Project (THP) and Mumbai Port Sustainability Foundation (MPSF) to present this one-of-a-kind experience to fellow Mumbaikars and visitors visiting the port from around the world. Let’s dive deep into it, pun intended!

Mumbai Port, One Of India’s Oldest Ports

Established in 1873, Mumbai’s port is one of the oldest in the country. The port has been, since then, crucial for shaping maritime relations and facilitating trade. In fact, the prosperity of the port helped Mumbai become an economic powerhouse in India. Now, Mumbai Port has opened its door to commoners, inviting them to access the inner workings of the port and areas that were previously restricted to the public eye.

About The Tour

The informative tour will be facilitated by experts from THP and port functionaries. The tour will take visitors on a journey through the past, present, and future of Mumbai’s maritime heritage. Visitors will get to experience several fascinating stops along the way and get to experience how the port functions. The tour will be an-inclusive one, meant to be informative for people of all ages – from children to students and even the elderly and people with special needs.

 

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What To See?

Mumbai’s Creation and Mumbai Port’s History

The tour will take visitors back in time to understand the creation of Mumbai and its subsequent port. From a mere cluster of seven volcanic islands to a bustling port city, Mumbai has had one of the most drastic transformations and serves as a milestone project in urban planning and land reclamation.

The Portuguese arrived in the 16th century and claimed the islands. However, in 1661, the islands were gifted in dowry in the marriage of England’s King Charles II to Portugal’s Catherine of Braganza.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Legacy And Mumbai’s Modern History

Mumbai’s maritime legacy is deeply connected to King Shivaji Maharaj. His formidable Maratha Navy led the way for the development of the Indian Navy centuries later and established Bombay as a key naval base for military and trade purposes. 

Apart from delving into the medieval and colonial history of the port, the tour will also take a deep dive into the history of Mumbai’s docks – namely Sassoon Dock, Victoria Dock, and Alexandra Dock which emerged in the second half of the 1800s. Here, visitors will get to see how the East India Company expanded their trade into India and utilized Mumbai as an efficient trade hub. It will also highlight the golden age of Mumbai Port, which was in the 20th Century.

Event Details

Dates: 14th December to 20th December, 2024

Duration: 3 hours

Entry fee: Free of charge

Batch Size: 90 participants per batch

Timings:

Note: Carry your valid Aadhar Card for registration

Entry: Green Gate, Ballard Pier, Mumbai Port