Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai
Mumbai, Jun 3: In a major boost to Mumbai’s urban transport infrastructure, the Maharashtra government is gearing up to introduce water taxi services between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, with travel time expected to be slashed to just 40 minutes. The initiative is aimed at easing road traffic congestion and offering an eco-friendly commuting alternative.
The proposed water taxis will operate from the Radio Jetty at the Gateway of India to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, significantly reducing the long and often congested road travel between the two hubs.
According to officials, the water taxis will be electric-powered, aligning with the state’s push towards green transportation solutions. These boats are expected to cut down carbon emissions, offering both speed and sustainability to commuters.
A high-level meeting to discuss the project’s implementation was chaired by Maharashtra Ports and Transport Minister Nitesh Rane on Monday. During the session, he instructed officials to:
• Begin detailed planning for water taxi services.
• Draft proposals for jetty construction at designated spots.
• Coordinate with the Airport Authority for necessary permits and approvals.
The meeting was attended by top-level officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Sethi, Navi Mumbai Airport Authority’s Brijesh Singhal, and Maharashtra Maritime Board’s Pradeep Badiye.
Minister Rane confirmed that the construction of water taxi terminals will take place in phased manner, based on feasibility and demand. He added that the service is being designed not only as a mode of transport but also as a feeder system to the broader Mumbai Water Metro project.
“We aim to integrate this water taxi service with the Mumbai Water Metro to provide a faster, more efficient transport option across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR),” said Rane.
Once operational, this first-of-its-kind electric water taxi service is expected to transform inter-city travel in the region. With shorter commute times, reduced pollution, and decongested roads, the project is poised to be a game-changer for daily commuters and tourists alike.