Archive · 25 Aug 2026
Maharashtra Plans Solar Boats to Expand Safer Water Transport
Maharashtra wants to use cleaner boats for passenger travel on its waterways.
The boats would use solar energy and other modern technology.
Minister Nitesh Rane asked officials to study this idea.
Navalt Boats showed officials how the boats could work.
One boat could carry 49 passengers on the Versova–Madh–Ro-Ro route.
Another could carry 20 passengers between the Gateway of India and Alibaug-Mandwa.
Officials also discussed better boats for travel between Mumbai and Sindhudurg.
The plan aims to reduce fuel use and make journeys safer and more comfortable.
Minister Nitesh Rane directed officials to promote solar-powered passenger boats in Maharashtra.
Navalt Boats presented solar-powered and technologically advanced passenger boats at Mantralaya on August 24, 2026.
A 49-passenger speedboat was discussed for the Versova–Madh–Ro-Ro service.
A 20-passenger boat was proposed for the Gateway of India–Alibaug-Mandwa route.
Officials will prepare a proposal to expand ferry services, improve safety and explore higher revenue.
- Who
- Maharashtra Fisheries and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane, Navalt Boats, the Maharashtra Maritime Board and Ports Department officials.
- What
- Officials discussed introducing solar-powered passenger boats and expanding modern ferry services.
- When
- The meeting was held on August 24, 2026.
- Where
- The meeting took place at Mantralaya, with proposed services on routes around Mumbai, Alibaug-Mandwa and Sindhudurg.
- Why
- To reduce dependence on conventional fuels, improve passenger safety and comfort, strengthen water transport and explore additional revenue.
- Minister
- Nitesh Rane, Maharashtra Fisheries and Ports Minister
- Technology
- Solar energy and other advanced technologies
- Proposed capacity
- 49 passengers for the Versova–Madh–Ro-Ro service
- Second proposed capacity
- 20 passengers for the Gateway of India–Alibaug-Mandwa route
- Other route discussed
- Water transport between Mumbai and Sindhudurg
- Responsible bodies
- Maharashtra Maritime Board and the Ports Department
- Expected benefits
- Lower dependence on traditional fuels, safer journeys and improved passenger comfort