Raymond to build & operate Worli jetty helipad with BMC

Mumbai: BMC has finalised Raymond as the private partner for the development and operation of a helipad at the Worli jetty under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, civic officials said.Under the agreement, Raymonds will redevelop the jetty, which was carved out for coastal road works, turning it into a helipad licensed by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). It will have to carry out all mandatory architectural changes, safety infrastructure upgrades and operational requirements prescribed by the aviation regulator.
Officials said the jetty structure was supposed to be temporary in nature. With plans for a helipad, it will need to be made permanent, and an additional ramp access and safety provisions will need to be created to meet DGCA norms. The helipad is expected to be operational within two years, subject to statutory permissions and completion of required modifications, officials said. Once commissioned, Raymond will operate and maintain the facility. Under the revenue-sharing arrangement, the company will share 50% of landing fee revenue with BMC or a minimum guarantee of Rs 4 lakh a month, whichever is higher. Officials said the Worli helipad has gained significance as the helipad on the premises of Mahalaxmi Racecourse is proposed to be integrated into a landscaped topiary and small botanical garden as part of a redevelopment plan. "When works on the racecourse begin, landing of helicopters of VIPs that is generally done will not be possible. At such a time, another helipad at a close distance will be needed. It will also allow operations of air ambulances," said an official. At a recent meeting with the civic commissioner, Borivli MLA Sanjay Upadhyay of BJP had demanded that a helipad be even made along the coastal road (north), which is being constructed. He said such a facility will be a boon, especially during medical emergencies. The helipad plans were first discussed in March 2025 when deputy CM Eknath Shinde had asked BMC to consider setting one up along the coastal road. There were initially two jetties—one near Amarsons Garden that has been dismantled and another at Worli. The Worli jetty was not proposed to be dismantled as coastal police had sought some space for surveillance. This area is large enough to allow helicopter landing, said civic officials.