TBM Staff - Mumbai
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced plans to introduce 10,000 water taxis to connect Mumbai’s distant suburbs with the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. Speaking at the ICERP 2025 exhibition, he stated that the initiative aims to reduce travel time significantly, allowing passengers from areas like Virar and Kalyan-Dombivli to reach the airport in just 70 minutes. Gadkari revealed he has already discussed this proposal with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
The proposed water taxis, envisioned to operate via the Arabian Sea and Thane Creek, promise to enhance urban mobility. Gadkari emphasised the importance of leveraging fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) for manufacturing these vessels, citing its cost-effectiveness and growing popularity in the shipping industry. He urged manufacturers to focus on reducing production costs to make this initiative feasible and scalable.
With passenger flights at Navi Mumbai International Airport set to commence in April 2026, the water taxi system could play a crucial role in addressing connectivity challenges. In addition to this, a metro rail network is also under development to improve accessibility to the new airport, complementing the water transport system.
This ambitious project aligns with India’s broader vision for infrastructure growth under the Viksit Bharat 2047 initiative. By integrating waterways with urban transit, the government aims to not only reduce congestion but also promote sustainable transport solutions.
