Traveling between Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and Mumbai is set to become faster than ever! The journey, which currently takes longer due to traffic congestion, will soon be completed in just 35-40 minutes.
The trial run of high-speed passenger boats from JNPA to the Gateway of India is set to take place on Friday. If the trial is successful, a green signal will be given to start passenger transport services immediately. These pollution-free speed boats will enable passengers to complete the JNPA-Mumbai journey in just 35-40 minutes.
Due to a decline in passenger numbers and safety concerns related to wooden boats, JNPA Chairman Unmesh Wagh opted for pollution-free, battery-operated speed boats equipped with advanced technology and modern amenities. JNPA authorities had been preparing for this implementation for several months. A proposal was prepared for the supply of two lightweight fiber speed boats with pollution-free electronic battery technology for a period of 10 years.
Budget Allocation of Rs 37.89 Crore
- The contract for supplying and operating the boats has been awarded to Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited. JNPA has allocated a budget of Rs 37,89,94,190 for the 10-year speed boat service.
- Two speed boats, with a capacity of 20-25 passengers in summer and 10-12 passengers in the monsoon season, were initially planned to be introduced in early February.
- However, technical reasons delayed the launch of the speed boat service. Now, a trial run is scheduled for Friday.
The Travel Save Time
The high-speed boat service will be beneficial for JNPA employees, project-affected persons, customs officials, Air Force personnel, CISF staff and their families, and port users who commute between Mumbai and the port. The service will also help in saving significant travel time.
