In a major step towards easing traffic congestion and promoting water transport, the Maharashtra government is set to launch India’s first e-water taxi in Mumbai. This eco-friendly and technologically advanced service will be operated as a pilot project by Sweden’s renowned Candela company. Maharashtra’s Fisheries and Ports Minister, Nitesh Rane, has directed officials to expedite the launch of this initiative.
The e-water taxi will run from the Gateway of India to Elephanta and Alibaug, offering commuters a faster, smoother, and more comfortable travel option while reducing the burden on road traffic. A key meeting regarding this project was held on Wednesday at the ministry, attended by Minister Nitesh Rane, Sweden’s Consul General Sven Östberg, representatives from Candela, and advisor Saloni Jhaveri.
Eco-Friendly and Safe Transport
Minister Nitesh Rane emphasized that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is keen on launching this project at the earliest. The state government will provide necessary approvals to ensure that the service is affordable and convenient for the public. Sweden’s Candela company has been instructed to prioritize passenger safety and environmental balance. Consul General Sven Östberg also expressed Sweden’s interest in Maharashtra’s port development. Candela will soon present a detailed plan for the project, and the pilot phase will be implemented shortly.
Ro-Ro Boats for Ganesh Festival: Faster Travel from Mumbai to Goa
To ease travel woes during the Ganesh festival, Maharashtra’s fisheries and port department also plans to introduce roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) boat services from Mumbai to Goa.
The festival sees a massive influx of Konkan natives from Mumbai, Thane, Mira Bhayandar, and Navi Mumbai. Despite additional state transport buses, travel demand remains high. To address this, the government will launch a Ro-Ro service allowing passengers to travel with their vehicles.
Departing from Mazgaon Dock, it will reach Devgad in 4.5 hours and Goa in 6.5 hours. Minister Nitesh Rane emphasized that the initiative would enhance convenience for devotees traveling to the Konkan region.
Boost to Water Transport in Mumbai
Despite Mumbai’s proximity to water bodies like the sea, creeks, and rivers across districts like Thane, Palghar, and Raigad, water transport remains largely underutilized. In January, Minister Pratap Sarnaik pointed out that water taxi services are successfully operating in Europe, the US, and Gulf countries, but Mumbai has not made significant progress in this area. Now, the Maharashtra government is taking concrete steps to strengthen Mumbai’s water transport network by integrating water taxis, Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) services, and ferry systems.
Sassoon Dock to Become a Modern Model Port
The meeting also discussed the development of Sassoon Dock into a modern model port, marking a significant step in port infrastructure development. The introduction of the e-water taxi is expected to alleviate road traffic congestion, reduce travel time, and provide a safer, eco-friendly transport alternative. For Mumbaikars, this service promises to be a fast, affordable, and comfortable new commuting option. Now, the city eagerly awaits the historic launch of this groundbreaking service.
