Water Taxis to Tackle Traffic in Mumbai, Thane Can Reach Navi Mumbai airport in 17 minutes: Nitin Gadkari

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, announced plans for water taxi services in Mumbai on Sunday, November 17. He stated that this service could connect any part of Mumbai to the Navi Mumbai airport in just 17 minutes. The announcement was made at a campaign event in Thane for Mahayuti candidates. 

Gadkari talked about the need for better transport systems in Mumbai and Thane to ease traffic congestion. He highlighted the potential of using the extensive maritime routes in these areas. According to him, water connectivity could help reduce both traffic and air pollution. 

To facilitate water taxis, jetties will be built near the Navi Mumbai airport. Gadkari also discussed introducing amphibious seaplanes. These planes can operate on small water bodies, such as lakes in Thane, eliminating the need for conventional runways. He encouraged investors to explore this technology.  

Gadkari shared updates on the New Delhi-Mumbai motorway. He said it would reduce traffic congestion between Mumbai and Pune caused by outstation vehicles. He also suggested restricting goods vehicles within city limits to improve urban traffic flow. 

He proposed a flight-like electric intercity bus service. These buses would be 18 meters long and have space for 135 passengers. The bus could travel 40 kilometers on a single 30-second charge. Gadkari said this innovation would help shift from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources. 

During his speech, Gadkari also talked about allegations from Congress about constitutional changes. He assured the public that the BJP would not alter the core features of the Constitution. He accused Congress of spreading false claims and reminded the audience of the constitutional amendments made during the 1975 Emergency. These changes were later reversed by the Janata Party government. 

Gadkari urged Thane residents to vote based on development goals instead of caste. He discussed the BJP’s commitment to modern solutions for urban challenges, including advanced transport infrastructure.