Water taxi to connect South Mumbai with Navi Mumbai Airport soon

In a bid to boost intercity connectivity, those going to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport will soon be able to skip road traffic and cruise across the harbour, thanks to a new water taxi service set to launch from the iconic Radio Club jetty in Colaba.The initiative, jointly spearheaded by the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) and the Maharashtra Ports Department, aims to slash travel time between South Mumbai and the airport site. Currently, the road journey via the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) takes about 60 to 75 minutes, depending on traffic. In contrast, the water taxi promises a swift 40-minute ride — saving over half an hour of travel time.What’s more, the service will be operated using electric water taxis, offering a greener, more sustainable alternative to conventional road transport. Apart from providing faster access, the new route is expected to ease traffic congestion and reduce fuel consumption.The proposal was tabled following Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’s call for robust multi-modal connectivity to the Navi Mumbai airport during a review meeting in April. He stressed the importance of integrating road, rail, metro, and water transport to ensure seamless travel to the airport.At a meeting held on Monday, CIDCO Managing Director Vijay Singhal presented the water taxi blueprint to Ports Minister Nitesh Rane. The Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) will oversee the construction of a jetty near the Navi Mumbai airport to facilitate direct water access. Minister Rane has directed officials to prepare a formal proposal and initiate the necessary approvals with airport authorities.“This water taxi service is a key step in transforming how people travel between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai,” said Rane. “It aligns with our broader vision to expand water transport across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.”With planning underway and sustainability at its core, the upcoming water taxi service promises to redefine airport commutes in Mumbai — combining speed, convenience, and scenic coastal views.