In a recent development, the Maharashtra government is all set to roll out water taxis for the city. The taxis will operate between the Gateway of India and Navi Mumbai. Starting from September 22, they are expected to reduce travel time between these two locations and will also help ease congestion in the city. Here’s what we know.
Long-Awaited Electric Water Taxis To Launch In Mumbai
Mumbai’s long-awaited electric water taxi service is finally expected to become operational on September 22. Mumbaikars will now be able to commute more comfortably on these electric water taxis, which are faster and cleaner than the current wooden boats. As per a report by NDTV, the service will connect Gateway of India/Mumbai Ferry Wharf and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), Navi Mumbai, cutting travel time to just under 40 minutes.
Currently, wooden boats on this route charge ₹100 per passenger and take about an hour to cover the distance. Sohel Kazani, owner of Bharat Freight Group (BFG), confirmed the launch. He shared with The Free Press Journal that BFG will manage the operations and introduce two boats in the first phase. One boat will be a hybrid vessel powered by solar, an electric battery, and a diesel backup. The other will be fully electric. Both vessels charge in less than an hour. Furthermore, in the second phase, the BFG will add four hydrogen-powered boats to the fleet once generators are ready.
Environment-Friendly Commute For Mumbaikars
As per a report by NDTV, these taxis are made using fibreglass and feature a European design. Not only are they energy efficient, but they also promise greater stability and comfort for commuters. BFG also plans to expand the service beyond JNPA with routes connecting South Mumbai to Elephanta Caves, Belapur, Alibaug and other harbour tourism circuits.
Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane has also stated that the government plans to integrate the water taxi service with the Mumbai Water Metro, helping people commute faster between Mumbai and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
Also Read: Bengaluru: Kempegowda Airport Rolls Out Electric Taxi Fleet; Initiative For Sustainable Travel
These water taxis will cut travel time, ease congestion on roads, and reduce pollution. Overall, they will offer an environmentally friendly commute. What do you think of these upcoming water taxis in Mumbai? Let us know.
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