Electric water taxis in Mumbai to cost from Rs 100 to Rs 150 for daily commuters

Kazani emphasized that for the routes from Gateway of India to Belapur and DCT to Belapur and others, fares will range between Rs 100 and Rs150 due to its appeal to officegoers.

The 24-passenger electric water taxis, set to operate at speed of 14 to 15 knots once all permissions are in place, will connect key destinations such as Gateway of India, Domestic Cruise Terminal, Belapur, JNPT, Elephanta Caves, and Mandwa.

The Indian Express had earlier reported on how largest water taxi, Nayan XI, faced challenges operating in Mumbai between Gateway of India and Belapur despite having permissions.

This was due to opposition from traditional (wooden) boat operators, and the constant hazard posed by rocks during navigation.
However, sources from the company mentioned that the upcoming electric water taxi, being smaller in size compared to the Nayan XI, might not encounter drafting issues.

Still, the cooperation of traditional boat operators is crucial for ensuring seamless operations.

The service provider intends to provide three business models — fixed daily commute schedules initially priced between Rs 100 and 150 per seat, hourly rentals at Rs 4,000, and fixed schedules for harbor tourism at Rs 300 per seat including activities such as sunset watching and bird watching.

The service provider is presently engaged in discussions with Mumbai Port Authority and Maharashtra Maritime Board officials to secure support for fixed berths equipped with charging stations and priority berthing aligned with proposed schedules.

Each new-generation electric water taxi will be equipped with a 122 KW charging capacity battery, facilitating a rapid 30-minute recharge at specific stations. Operating on a 64kWh battery, these taxis can function for 2-4 hours after charging, offering an efficient and sustainable maritime commuting solution.

Sohel Kazani said that while the boats are primarily made in India (except for the battery and motor sourced from foreign countries), the project took one and a half years to materialize after a year of market examination.

Trials of the boats, manufactured in Goa, were conducted there, lasting for about 15 days to ensure stability and durability.
The introduction of electric water taxis aligns with Infinity Harbour Services’ primary goal of significantly contributing to environmental preservation.

Currently, two 24-seater electric water taxis undergo trials in Goa, while two six-seater water taxis are being tested in Kochi.