The much-anticipated E-Water Taxi project, a key component of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ 100-day development agenda, is set to provide an alternative mode of transport across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), according to corporator Deepesh Mhatre.
The first phase of the project, connecting Dombivli to Gaimukh in Thane via water transport, is expected to commence soon. A site inspection by Maharashtra BJP President Ravindra Chavan and other ministers is scheduled in the coming days.
State Minister Nitesh Rane and BJP state chief Ravindra Chavan are closely monitoring the progress of the project and overseeing its implementation.
The E-Water Taxi service will operate on two routes, linking Dombivli with Thane, Mira-Bhayandar and Navi Mumbai. One route will connect Dombivli directly to Thane and Navi Mumbai, while another will serve additional suburban locations including Diva.
Officials said the service will be opened to passengers after the completion of infrastructure works and mandatory safety trials. Ticket fares, however, are yet to be finalized.
The project aligns with a broader vision announced by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari in 2025 to introduce 10,000 water taxis connecting Mumbai with its surrounding suburbs. The proposed network is expected to extend from Kalyan-Dombivli to Vasai-Virar, significantly improving regional connectivity.
Once operational, the water transport network is expected to enable commuters to reach the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport in approximately 70 minutes.
The Maharashtra government is currently investing INR 6,066 crore in developing an extensive water transport network across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The project includes the expansion of a 340.68-kilometre waterway network connecting Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, Kalyan, Vasai and Mira-Bhayandar.
Despite the ambitious plans, previous water transport services in the region have struggled to attract sustained passenger demand, leading to the discontinuation of some routes. Industry observers note that the high cost of developing and operating water transport infrastructure could also result in relatively expensive ticket fares.
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