Ferry Services From Mumbai To Alibaug: Maharashtra Maritime Board Set To Launch Electric Boats Soon

In response to two ferry accidents in Mumbai harbour over the last four months, the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) has decided to invest Rs 330 crore in 15 electric boats for ferry services, as per a Hindustan Times (HT) report. These will operate between the Gateway of India and Alibaug, as well as Elephanta Caves.

The new service, which will be operated by the state-run MMB, is set to begin its first phase in August. The boats, manufactured by Swedish company Candella, use hydrofoil technology, which allows them to glide above the water, reducing drag and energy consumption. This technology enables the boats to travel at speeds of 18-30 knots while consuming far less energy than traditional ferries.

Each boat will cost Rs 22 crore, and the first two vessels, with a capacity of 30 passengers each, are expected to arrive in August. Unlike the current ferry services, which are primarily run by private operators, the MMB will ensure that the fares remain affordable. Minister of Fisheries and Ports Development Nitesh Rane highlighted the safety and environmental benefits of the electric ferries, which will also address issues with overloading and expired licenses in existing services.

In addition to the electric boats, Rane also announced plans for a speedboat Ro-Ro service between Mumbai and Goa, expected to launch by September. This service will allow passengers to travel from Mumbai to Ratnagiri in four and a half hours and reach Goa in an additional two hours. The service is aimed at providing convenience for travellers, particularly during the Ganpati festival, allowing them to take their cars along.

These new ferry services come after two major accidents. In December, a ferry capsized, killing at least 14 people after a Navy speedboat collided with it. In April, a private ferry carrying 130 passengers began to sink due to rough weather, though no casualties were reported. Recently, a sailor's boat caught fire near Alibaug, though all 20 fishers on board were safely rescued.

These measures aim to improve safety, reduce the risk of accidents, and provide more sustainable transport options for passengers in Mumbai and the surrounding areas.