In a major step towards reducing traffic congestion in Mumbai, the Maharashtra state government is planning to launch a water taxi service between Radio Jetty, near the Gateway of India, and Navi Mumbai Airport. The new service is expected to cut travel time between the two points to just 40 minutes.
A high-level meeting regarding the proposed water taxi project was held on Monday at Mantralaya. During the meeting, State Port and Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane directed officials from the Fisheries Department to begin construction of jetties at various locations to support the service.
Minister Rane instructed that the construction of terminals for the water taxi service should begin in phases. He also directed the airport authority to submit proposals for the necessary permissions. In addition, he emphasized the need to identify suitable locations for setting up jetties for cargo transportation as well.
The proposed service will use electric boats, making it not only faster but also an eco-friendly alternative to road transport. Officials believe this initiative will significantly improve connectivity between Mumbai and various parts of Navi Mumbai, while also offering passengers a safer, more comfortable, and environmentally sustainable travel option.
The water taxi service is expected to become a vital part of the city's transportation network, helping to ease road congestion and enhance urban mobility.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including Sanjay Sethi, Additional Chief Secretary of the Transport, Ports, and Civil Aviation Department; Brijesh Singhal from the Navi Mumbai Airport Authority; and Pradeep Badiye from the Maharashtra Maritime Board, along with other departmental officers.
