The Maharashtra government is all set to change the way people commute in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) with the upcoming Mumbai Water Taxi project. Inspired by the successful Kochi Water Metro, this new initiative promises to ease traffic, reduce travel times, and offer a green, efficient alternative to the city’s crowded roads and trains.
Mumbai Water Taxi Project Details
The Mumbai Water Taxi project is currently in the Detailed Project Report (DPR) stage. The report is being prepared by the Kochi Water Metro Company and will soon be submitted to the Maharashtra Maritime Board. The project will be managed by a joint venture, with equal ownership between the state and the central government, following the model used in Kochi.
As part of the plan, 15 new jetties will be developed, and 8 water taxi routes will be introduced across Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and Raigad districts. This will create a strong network connecting key points in and around the city.
Modern, Eco-Friendly Boats
The Mumbai Water Taxi service will use modern electric vessels that are both eco-friendly and efficient. The government has ordered 15 electric boats from a Swedish company, each capable of carrying up to 30 passengers. These boats will operate on major routes such as Gateway of India to Alibaug and Elephanta Island.
The idea is not just about saving time, but also about providing a cleaner, greener option for daily commuters.
Travel Time Will Reduce Sharply
One of the biggest advantages of the Mumbai Water Taxi project is the sharp reduction in travel time. For example, a trip from South Mumbai to Vasai that currently takes about 2 hours by road and 1.5 hours by train will take just 40-50 minutes by water taxi. Similarly, the journey from Kalyan to Vasai could be completed in 35-45 minutes.
This will be a major relief for thousands of commuters who spend hours stuck in traffic or on crowded trains every day.
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Additional Services Planned
The Mumbai Water Taxi project is just the beginning. In its second phase, the government also plans to introduce Water Ambulances for emergency medical transport. Additionally, a Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) ferry service is being planned between Mazgaon in Mumbai and Malvan in Sindhudurg district. This Ro-Ro service is expected to start during the Ganpati festival later this year.
Importantly, the traditional wooden ferries that locals rely on will continue to operate alongside the new water taxis, giving commuters plenty of options.
Impact on Mumbai’s Public Transport
The Mumbai Water Taxi project is expected to take a huge load off the city’s already packed local trains and metro lines. By offering a faster, more direct route via water, the taxis will attract a large number of commuters who currently depend on trains and buses.
Similar to what was seen with the Kochi Water Metro, integrating water transport into the city’s overall public transport system can significantly improve urban mobility and reduce pressure on land-based transport systems.
Final Thoughts
The Mumbai Water Taxi project is a much-needed addition to the city’s transport network. With modern electric boats, reduced travel times, and better connectivity across districts, it promises to make commuting in Mumbai faster, greener, and much more comfortable.
In the next two years, as the Mumbai Water Taxi service becomes a reality, it could completely change the way people travel across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. It’s an exciting development that could not have come at a better time for the bustling, ever-growing city.
