Electric Water Taxis to Connect Gateway of India with Navi Mumbai in Just 40 Minutes
Mumbai, Maharashtra – In a significant move to alleviate Mumbai’s chronic traffic congestion, the Maharashtra government is gearing up to introduce an eco-friendly electric water taxi service, drastically reducing travel time between South Mumbai and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport.
A Faster, Greener Commute
The proposed electric water taxi service will operate between the Radio Club Jetty near Gateway of India and Navi Mumbai, completing the journey in just 40 minutes—a major improvement over the 60–75-minute road commute via the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link.
Beyond speed, this initiative is a crucial step toward green mobility, leveraging electric-powered boats to minimize carbon emissions while offering a quieter, cleaner, and more sustainable travel option for daily commuters and tourists.
Seamless Integration with Mumbai’s Transport Network
This project is not just a standalone service but a feeder system for the upcoming Mumbai Water Metro, ensuring smooth inter-modal connectivity with buses, local trains, and metro lines. The goal is to create a fully integrated, eco-conscious transport ecosystem across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
Government Push for Swift Implementation
A high-level meeting chaired by State Ports and Transport Minister Nitesh Rane recently accelerated progress on the project. Key officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Sethi, Brijesh Singhal (Navi Mumbai Airport Authority), and Pradeep Badiye (Maharashtra Maritime Board), discussed:
- Finalizing water taxi routes and service models
- Constructing new jetties at strategic locations
- Securing approvals from the Airport Authority of India
Minister Rane emphasized a phased development approach, prioritizing demand and logistical feasibility. “This is about integrating smart, green transport into Mumbaikars’ daily lives,” he stated.
Legal Hurdles Cleared
The project received a major boost after the Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging the construction of a passenger terminal and jetty near Gateway of India. With this clearance, the Maharashtra Maritime Board can now proceed with terminal development unhindered.
Future-Ready Infrastructure
The plan includes phased construction of terminals, starting with Gateway of India and Navi Mumbai, with the latter being equipped to support electric vessel operations near the new airport. This initiative will enhance multimodal connectivity, complementing metro corridors and road networks.
A Blueprint for Sustainable Urban Mobility
The electric water taxi project is more than just a transport upgrade—it’s a model for coastal cities battling congestion and pollution. If successful, it could inspire similar eco-friendly transit solutions nationwide.
