• Source:PTI

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Monday assured that people would be able to reach Navi Mumbai International Airport from anywhere in Mumbai within 17 minutes once the proposed water taxi services are operational. The union minister announced while addressing an election rally in Thane on Sunday evening just days ahead of the Maharashtra assembly elections 2024.

Nitin Gadkari stated that jetties near the upcoming airport have already been constructed to support the initiative. He emphasised the use of Mumbai and Thane’s extensive sea routes to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution in these cities. "By harnessing the vast sea routes around Mumbai and Thane, we can significantly reduce traffic congestion and air pollution," he said.

The union minister also proposed amphibious seaplanes capable of landing on small water bodies like Thane’s lakes, offering an alternative to conventional runways which is expected to benefit thousands in these megacities.

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Nitin Gadkari addressed broader traffic concerns, highlighting the New Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, which aims to divert outstation traffic and ease congestion in Mumbai and Pune. He proposed managing freight vehicle movement in urban regions and introducing an inter-city electric bus service.  

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The envisioned 18-metre-long buses will seat 135 passengers, offering a flight-like experience. With the ability to run 40 kilometres on a 30-second charge, the buses symbolise a shift towards renewable energy, the minister said.

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