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Easy Commute For Mumbaikars: South Mumbai To Airport In Just 40 Mins Via Water Taxi |Details Inside

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The Rs 190 crore Gateway of India-Radio Club marina project aims to revolutionise Mumbai’s eastern waterfront commute with electric water taxis connecting South Mumbai to Navi Mumbai airport in just 40 minutes.
Water Taxi From Colaba To Navi Mumbai Airport (AI-generated image)

Water Taxi From Colaba To Navi Mumbai Airport (AI-generated image)

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Work has begun on the Rs 190 crore Gateway of India-Radio Club marina project, with the state government announcing plans for water taxis that promise to transform commuting along Mumbai’s eastern waterfront, especially to the upcoming Navi Mumbai airport.

E-Water Taxi Project

The Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) will operate 15 electric boats on the Gateway of India–Elephanta Caves–Alibaug route. The project, costing Rs 330 crore, involves boats priced at Rs 22 crore each. The plan, advised by Kochi Water Metro consultants, aims to launch services by the end of the monsoon season, starting with two vessels, each carrying 30 passengers. The boats will be manufactured by Candella, a Swedish company known for hydrofoil technolo, a TOI report said.

Innovative Boat Design

The boats use computer-guided underwater hydrofoils to lift the hull above water, reducing drag and creating a “flying” effect. These hydrofoil boats consume significantly less energy than traditional ferries and operate at speeds of 18-30 knots.

Marina Development

Currently, 30-35 lakh passengers travel annually from jetties at Gateway of India to Elephanta, Alibaug, and Navi Mumbai. To accommodate this volume, MMB has awarded contracts to build marinas at Gateway of India and Radio Club, designed to handle over 2.5 lakh passengers per year.

Benefits for Airport Traffic

  • Faster Commute: The water taxi offers a 40-minute journey from South Mumbai to Navi Mumbai airport.
  • Time-Saving: Saves over 30 minutes compared to road travel via the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL).
  • Eco-Friendly: Electric boats reduce emissions and pollution.
  • Reduced Road Congestion: Less strain on road and rail networks.
  • Fuel Efficient: Cuts reliance on conventional vehicles.
  • Scenic Travel: Passengers can enjoy views of Mumbai Harbour, Gateway of India, Elephanta Caves, and the flamingo habitat at Nerul-Belapur creek.

Project Timeline and Facilities

The project deadline is 2027. The marina will feature parking for 150 cars, spacious terminal waiting areas, a luggage handling system, an open-air amphitheater, and e-golf carts for easy movement within the premises.

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Nikita Jha
Nikita Jha author

Nikita is a journalist at Times Now, specialising in city desk coverage. A graduate of Delhi University, she balances her professional life with creat...View More

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