Mumbai Electric Water Taxi Launch On September 22 To Cut Commute Time

Mumbai's long-awaited electric water taxi service is set to begin operations on September 22, offering a faster, more eco-friendly, and comfortable commute between the Gateway of India/Mumbai Ferry Wharf and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA).

Currently, wooden boats operate on this route, charging Rs100 per passenger and taking over an hour to complete the journey. The new electric boats, however, are expected to reduce travel time to under 40 minutes, making commuting significantly quicker.

Confirming the launch, Sohel Kazani, owner of Bharat Freight Group (BFG)-the operator of the service-stated that two boats will be introduced in the first phase. "One is a hybrid vessel powered by solar, electric battery, and diesel backup, while the other is fully electric. Both can be charged in less than an hour," Kazani explained. In the second phase, four hydrogen-powered boats will join the fleet once the generators are operational.

Constructed from fiberglass and designed with a European aesthetic, the boats promise energy efficiency, greater stability, and enhanced passenger comfort. BFG also plans to expand the service beyond JNPA, connecting South Mumbai to destinations like Elephanta Caves, Belapur, Alibaug, and other harbor tourism circuits.