Mumbai Water Taxis Set For Launch This Year—What You Need To Know

In welcome news for travellers, the Maharashtra government is preparing to launch a new water taxi network across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), as reported by Times Now. This new service is expected to reduce road traffic and offer passengers a faster and cleaner way to travel.

Electric Water Taxis

As part of the project, the state has ordered a fleet of 15 electric water taxis from a well-known Swedish company that specialises in zero-emission marine vessels. Each of these boats will carry up to 30 passengers. They will run on popular routes such as the Gateway of India to Alibaug and Elephanta Island, according to a report by Magic Bricks. These electric vessels are expected to start service later this year.

Traditional Wooden Ferries

The government has confirmed that the new electric taxis will not replace the current wooden ferries. Instead, both services will operate side by side. This means passengers will have the freedom to choose between the modern electric boats and the traditional ferries. This decision also ensures that ferry workers can continue their jobs without being affected by the change.

Ro-Ro Service

A new roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) ferry service is also being introduced between Mazgaon in South Mumbai and Malvan in Sindhudurg district. The journey is expected to take around four and a half hours. To support this service, new jetties are being built in Ratnagiri, Vijaydurg, and Malvan. The first Ro-Ro service is likely to begin during the upcoming Ganpati festival.

How This Will Help

The water taxi and Ro-Ro services aim to reduce the number of private vehicles on Mumbai's already crowded roads. This shift to water transport is not only expected to ease traffic in key areas but will also reduce air pollution caused by vehicles. By choosing to travel by water, passengers will enjoy a faster and more peaceful journey, while also helping the environment.

Overall, the water taxi network is seen as a major step towards better and greener public transport in the Mumbai region.