Centre Considers Lowering Jetty Charge to Cut Speedboat Fares at Gateway of India

Passengers travelling by speedboat from the Gateway of India to Alibaug and Elephanta could see a slash in fares soon following a positive response from the central government regarding port fees.

The Union government has responded positively to a demand seeking a reduction in the Rs 92.04 per-passenger charge collected by the Mumbai Port Trust. The fee is levied on operators of boats operating out of Jetty No. 5 at the Gateway of India, located opposite the Taj Mahal Hotel. Because the levy increases operating expenses, it is subsequently reflected in the final ticket prices paid by commuters.

Ports Minister Nitesh Rane met Union Ports and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal to raise the issue and formally request a cut in the jetty charge. A reduction in the charge collected from operators is expected to lower operating costs, which could in turn lead to reduced passenger fares.

At present, speedboat fares between the Gateway of India and destinations like Alibaug and Elephanta range between Rs 600 and Rs 800 per person. Commuters booking an entire speedboat with a seating capacity of five to 12 passengers currently pay between Rs 5,000 and Rs 10,000.

Speedboats offer a considerably faster commute, completing the one-way journey across the harbour in about 20 to 25 minutes. In comparison, traditional wooden boats, which continue to operate from Jetty Nos. 1 to 4, take approximately 45 to 55 minutes for a one-way trip.

Traditional wooden boat services remain the cheaper alternative, with fares priced at approximately Rs 280 to Rs 300 per passenger. Jetty No. 5 was specifically developed to cater to speedboats and private yachts. With the jetty charges now under review by authorities, travellers heading to Alibaug and Elephanta may soon benefit from reduced rates on the faster sea route.