Mumbai, India:-
In a significant move to alleviate Mumbai’s notorious traffic congestion, the Maharashtra government is fast-tracking plans for an eco-friendly electric water taxi service connecting the iconic Gateway of India to the forthcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. This pioneering initiative is poised to slash travel time between the two bustling hubs to a mere 40 minutes, offering a sustainable and expedited alternative to conventional road transport.
The ambitious proposal gained traction during a high-level meeting held on Monday at Mantralaya, presided over by State Ports and Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane. Minister Rane issued directives to Fisheries Department officials to commence construction of jetties at strategic locations to facilitate the new service. He further stressed a phased development approach for establishing the requisite water taxi terminals. Concurrently, the Airport Authority has been tasked with submitting proposals to secure the necessary project approvals.
Operating on electric boats, the water taxi service seamlessly aligns with Maharashtra’s overarching commitment to fostering eco-conscious transportation. Beyond its promise of drastically reduced travel times, the service is set to deliver a safer, more comfortable, and distinctly cleaner commute for passengers.
To ensure seamless water access, the Maharashtra Maritime Board will undertake the construction of a dedicated jetty in close proximity to the Navi Mumbai International Airport. This critical infrastructure project forms an integral part of the state’s comprehensive vision for a robust multimodal connectivity network to the new airport, meticulously integrating road, rail, metro, and water transport systems.
Upon its full operationalization, the service is anticipated to substantially mitigate road congestion and curb fuel consumption, thereby leading to a notable reduction in emissions and a significantly lighter environmental footprint. Commuters can look forward to a journey between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai that is not only faster and smoother but also inherently greener
