Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has proposed a fleet of 10,000 water taxis to connect Mumbai’s distant suburbs with the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. At the ICERP 2025 exhibition, Gadkari revealed that he had already discussed the idea with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. 

The water taxis would transport passengers from suburban areas such as Virar, located along the Arabian Sea to the north, and Kalyan-Dombivli on the northeast near Thane Creek, to the new airport in just 70 minutes. Gadkari emphasised that this initiative would significantly ease travel for commuters from various parts of the city.

 

"The water taxis will provide a swift connection from all sides of Mumbai, including Virar and Kalyan-Dombivli, to the new airport in just 70 minutes. I have already discussed this proposal with the Chief Minister. We need 10,000 water taxis in Mumbai," Gadkari stated. 

Scheduled to begin passenger flights in April 2026, the new airport will also be integrated with the metro rail system to enhance connectivity. Gadkari further suggested that all 10,000 water taxis could be constructed using fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP), a lightweight and durable material already in use in the shipping industry, and encouraged manufacturers to reduce material costs. 

(ET)