Ferry from Thane to Kalyan may soon become a reality

THANE: The inland waterway project, which was stuck for more than 10 years, may soon see the light of the day.

The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has assured the start of waterways from Thane to other cities within one year.

The work of constructing the jetty has already begun at the Gaimukh bunder along the Ghodbunder Road.

The water transport was proposed in Mumbai, Thane and Navi Mumbai around 10 years ago.

Anil Patil, deputy city engineer, public works department, said, “We will initially start the transport to Kalyan, Vasai Virar and Bhiwandi from Thane. This route is slated to start within one year,”

He added that they would develop 13 jetties across the city which will include areas like Waghbil, Mumbra, Kalwa, Kasarvadavli and Owala to name a few.

The transport will be of three types -- goods, passenger and tourism.

“The goods transport from water is 50% cheaper than roads, so we can generate revenue from it. We had given Rs11 crore to the maritime board to construct the jetty at Gaimukh, as they have the expertise for it,” he said.

He added that he work had started from Wednesday.

The corporation had sent a proposal to the Centre six months ago to fund the water transport to ensure the increasing population in the city has an alternate mode of transport, apart from railways and roads. For the inland waterways, the civic body will provide the infrastructure, boats, and ships.

The operations will be handled by private players.

The Ulhas creek, along with Navi Mumbai, Kalyan, Dombivli, Diva, Mumbra, Kalwa, Kopri, Gaimukh, Bhayandar Pada, further up until the Ghodbunder Road can be used for inland water transport.

Tourists can take a ride around the Thane creek belt.

Water transport is cheaper than rail or road transport. Thane has a huge coastline and residents will benefit, if waterways are started. It would also ease the crowds in local trains.

BACHCHAN KUMAR The goods transport from water is 50% cheaper than by road.