Mumbai will soon get a new electric water taxi service from September 22, providing a faster, cleaner, and more comfortable travel option between Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and Gateway of India/Mumbai Ferry Wharf.
The European-designed boats are made of glass and fibre, offering greater comfort and stability. Currently, the journey using wooden boats costs INR 100 per person and takes over an hour. The new electric boats will reduce the trip to less than 40 minutes.
In the first phase, two boats will be introduced which will operate the service. One boat will be fully electric, while the other will be a hybrid powered by solar energy, electric batteries, and a diesel backup. Both boats can be charged in under an hour.
In the second phase, after generators are installed, four hydrogen-powered vessels will join the fleet. Bharat Freight Group (BFG) also plans to expand routes beyond JNPA, connecting South Mumbai to tourist locations like Elephanta Caves, Belapur, and Alibaug.
JNPA had announced on December 26 last year that electric ferry services would start between the port and Mumbai in January 2025. The new boats feature air-conditioned seating and prioritise passenger comfort Online ticketing and check-in options will be available, while the JNPA will continue issuing tickets.
JNPA had also announced that during the foul weather season, the electric ferry services will operate from Bhaucha Dakka to JNPA and from Gateway of India to JNPA in the sea.
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