Electric Water Taxis Set to Revitalize Mumbai’s Gateway of India to Belapur Route

Mumbai, 26th November 2023: Electric water taxis are set to make a comeback on the Gateway of India to Belapur route, with the construction of four boats in Goa. Two of these boats are expected to commence service in December, promising a one-hour travel time between Gateway of India and Belapur. The fare for this journey is estimated to be in the range of 100 to 150 rupees.

The initiative, led by the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) and the Mumbai Port Authority, aims to alleviate Mumbai’s traffic congestion through the promotion of water transport. ‘RORO ferry service’ and ‘Water Taxi’ services are being introduced as part of this effort. While a water taxi service with a 200-passenger capacity was launched from Gateway of India to Belapur and Mandwa Beach two and a half years ago, it was discontinued due to insufficient response.

To address pollution concerns, the option of an ‘E Water Taxi’ has been explored. The preparation for this service has been ongoing for one and a half to two years, with four ‘e water taxis’ currently under construction in Goa. Two of these water taxis have been completed, and they will soon be handed over to Infinity Harbor Services, a private organization.

The daily water transport service from Gateway of India to Belapur is expected to commence in the first or second week of December with the arrival of the first two e-water taxis. Initially, the service will run from Gateway of India to Belapur, but there are plans to extend it to Belapur via Elephanta in the future.

The ongoing testing of two water taxis in Goa with a capacity of 24 passengers each has received permission from the Mumbai Port Authority and the Maharashtra Maritime Board for the Gateway of India to Belapur and JNPT services. Pending permission for the Gateway of India to Mandwa and Elephanta services will determine the launch of these services.

The e-water taxis are cost-effective due to their low maintenance costs. After charging the battery for half an hour, these water taxis can run for at least six hours. The e-water taxis, known for their speed, are expected to cover the Gateway of India to Belapur route in one hour and the Gateway of India to Elephanta route in half an hour. The service aims to provide an affordable and environmentally friendly transportation option.