Mumbai Electric Water Taxi Service Set To Launch Around March 10; Travel Between South Mumbai And JNPA In Under 40 Minutes

Mumbai is set to introduce a new electric water taxi service that aims to transform harbour travel between the city and Navi Mumbai. The service, expected to begin around March 10, will connect the Domestic Cruise Terminal in South Mumbai with the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), offering commuters a faster and environmentally friendly transport option.

Authorities said ticket prices are likely to be around ₹100 per passenger, making the service an affordable alternative for those travelling across the harbour.

Trial Runs Before Commercial Launch

The arrival of the first set of vessels in Mumbai marks a major step toward launching the project. Over the next few days, operators will conduct trial runs to test the boats and operational systems before opening the service for passengers.

The project is being implemented by Bharat Freight Group, while the vessels have been built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, one of India’s leading shipbuilding companies.

Earlier, the launch had been delayed due to technical issues involving the supplier of motors used in the boats. With those challenges now resolved, preparations for the rollout are moving ahead.

Modern Boats With Comfortable Facilities

In the first phase, two boats will begin operations. One vessel is a hybrid model powered by solar energy, electric batteries, and a diesel backup, while the second boat runs entirely on electric power.

Each boat has a seating capacity of 20 passengers and is equipped with several comfort features including:

• Air-conditioned cabins
• Plush sofa-style seating
• Onboard toilets
• Advanced navigation systems

The boats are built using fibre and glass materials and follow a European design, which improves stability and efficiency while travelling across the harbour.

Faster Commute Across Mumbai Harbour

The electric water taxi service is expected to significantly cut travel time between South Mumbai and Navi Mumbai.

Currently, traditional wooden boats take over an hour to cover the route. The new electric vessels are designed to complete the journey in less than 40 minutes, travelling at a cruising speed of about 10 nautical miles per hour.

The boats are powered by twin 25 kW motors and a 60 kWh battery pack, allowing them to operate for around four hours on a single charge. Battery charging is expected to take less than one hour, enabling quick turnaround between trips.

Plans For Future Expansion

The electric water taxi project is part of a broader initiative to promote cleaner and more efficient water transport in Mumbai’s harbour region.

In the next phase, the operator plans to introduce four hydrogen-powered boats once the necessary generator infrastructure is in place. This step is aimed at further reducing emissions and supporting sustainable marine transport.

Authorities are also exploring the possibility of expanding routes to connect South Mumbai with popular destinations such as:

• Elephanta Caves
• Belapur
• Alibaug

These routes could boost coastal tourism while providing additional commuting options for residents and visitors.

A Step Toward Sustainable Harbour Transport

The introduction of electric water taxis represents a significant move toward modernising Mumbai’s water transport system. By combining faster travel, improved passenger comfort, and eco-friendly technology, the service is expected to provide a practical alternative to road and rail travel between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai.

If successful, the project could pave the way for expanded water-based mobility solutions across the Mumbai metropolitan region, easing congestion and supporting sustainable urban transport.