The Mumbai Metropolitan Region presents a strong potential for water transport as a solution to Mumbai’s persistent traffic congestion. With extensive sea and gulf coasts, the region offers an opportunity to develop an efficient alternative mode of transportation. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has directed officials to prepare an action plan by March to implement water transport services.
Despite the construction of multiple flyovers and bridges, traffic congestion continues to be a challenge. The jetty at Nerul, built for INR 11 crore through CIDCO, Maharashtra Maritime Board, and Mumbai Port Trust, remains unused. To address this issue, a meeting was held to discuss launching water taxis, ropeways, and pod taxis in Mumbai.
There are plans to introduce water transport from Mumbai to Vasai through public participation, with potential extensions to Navi Mumbai. The Thane Bay region, encompassing Kalyan-Dombivli, Mira Bhayandar, and Navi Mumbai, has a vast water basin that can be utilised for this purpose.
Additionally, officials are considering ropeways as an alternative in high-traffic areas. A pod taxi trial, inspired by London’s Heathrow Airport, is set to take place at Bandra’s BKC complex, with services planned between Bandra and Kurla. Furthermore, Sarnaik has announced the introduction of a bike taxi service, similar to Rapido, within the next two months.
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