The Maharashtra government is planning to introduce water taxis and expand sea-based transport routes, a move that promises to revolutionize urban mobility in the state. The initiative was announced by Minister of State for Home (Ports) Nitesh Rane, who emphasized the government’s commitment to developing a robust and sustainable maritime transport network.
This ambitious plan, which focuses on utilizing inland waterways and coastal routes, is part of the larger vision to promote multi-modal transport and reduce the dependency on overloaded road and rail networks in cities like Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, and beyond.
Tapping into the Coastal Advantage
With a coastline stretching over 720 kilometers, Maharashtra is uniquely positioned to leverage its geographical advantage. The proposed water taxis are expected to operate between key urban and coastal hubs such as South Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, Alibaug, Kalyan, and Uran, offering a faster, more scenic, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional road transport.
Minister Nitesh Rane stated, “We are working on a long-term plan to develop sea routes for both passenger and cargo movement. Water taxis will soon become a reality. This will not only ease traffic pressure on roads but also reduce pollution and enhance connectivity between coastal towns and cities.”
Mumbai’s Water Taxi Trial and Expansion Plans
Earlier trials of water taxi services from Belapur to Gateway of India and Domestic Cruise Terminal had received encouraging responses. However, high ticket prices and limited routes hampered consistent adoption. Learning from these experiences, the government now aims to expand the fleet, rationalize fares, and build better infrastructure to support regular and affordable services.
The Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) and the Mumbai Port Trust (MbPT) are working in coordination with private players to facilitate operations, construct jetties, and modernize terminals. Plans are underway to introduce electric and hybrid vessels to minimize the environmental footprint.
Multi-Modal Integration and Urban Decongestion
The introduction of water taxis is seen as a key element of Maharashtra’s strategy to build a multi-modal transport ecosystem, integrating land, sea, and air connectivity. For example, seamless links are being planned between water taxi terminals and metro stations, suburban railway stations, and upcoming international airport projects such as Navi Mumbai International Airport.
This model is expected to significantly cut down travel times for daily commuters. A typical road journey from Navi Mumbai to South Mumbai can take up to two hours during peak traffic, but the same trip by water taxi could take just 30-40 minutes, offering both time and fuel savings.
Economic and Environmental Impact
In addition to convenience, the move toward sea-based transport is expected to have positive economic and environmental implications. It will generate employment in boat operations, maintenance, logistics, and port services. Local economies in smaller coastal towns are also likely to receive a boost through improved accessibility and tourism.
From an environmental perspective, reducing vehicular load on roads will help lower carbon emissions, especially if the shift to electric water taxis gains momentum. With marine fuel alternatives and cleaner technology, water taxis could emerge as a sustainable solution for urban transit.
Looking Ahead: The Roadmap
Minister Rane revealed that feasibility studies for several new routes are currently being conducted. A blueprint for jetty upgrades, vessel procurement, safety regulations, and ticketing systems is in progress. A public-private partnership (PPP) model is expected to drive much of the implementation, ensuring innovation, efficiency, and long-term viability.
Moreover, the state government plans to engage with international experts in marine transport to ensure global best practices in safety, navigation, and passenger experience.
Public Response and Anticipation
The announcement has sparked considerable interest among urban commuters, with many expressing hope that the project will become a viable and regular option. Environmentalists and urban planners have also welcomed the initiative, citing it as a progressive step toward sustainable mobility.
Conclusion
With Maharashtra’s cities growing rapidly and roads increasingly choked with vehicles, water-based transport offers a timely and transformative solution. As the state gears up to launch water taxis and develop modern sea routes, a new chapter in coastal connectivity is set to begin — one that blends innovation, sustainability, and urban efficiency on the waves of change.