The long-awaited resumption of the Nerul–Mumbai water transport service will finally become a reality, with operations scheduled to restart on 15th December. The service, which had been halted earlier, is being reintroduced by the Maharashtra Maritime Board to ease travel congestion and offer a smoother commute for residents of Nerul and nearby areas of Navi Mumbai.
The state government had sanctioned ₹150 crore for the Coastal Transport Service project, under which new ferries and jetties were developed in 2023. With the infrastructure now ready, the Board has initiated steps to relaunch the passenger boat services connecting various coastal points.
The Nerul–Mumbai route, managed by Drishti group, will operate services daily, offering a major relief to daily commuters. The journey time, which often extends to more than an hour an hour by road, will now take just 20 minutes by water.
Authorities have upgraded safety systems, installed modern navigation facilities, and improved passenger amenities. Each ferry can accommodate 60 passengers at a time, with ticket rates starting at ₹ 560 per person.
The resumption is expected to significantly reduce road traffic in the region and promote eco-friendly modes of transport. Officials have confirmed that additional routes—including Nerul–Mandwa and Belapur–Gateway—will also be considered in the next phase.
The Maharashtra Maritime Board has urged the public to make use of the service and support the government’s initiative to enhance coastal connectivity.