Hindu Group Demands Affordable Water Transport Between Mumbai & Mangaluru

Mumbai-based Hindu Vidhidnya Parishad (HVP) has written to the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) and the state's Home Secretary, demanding the introduction of affordable, year-round passenger water transport along the state's coastal belt.

The group has emphasized that water transport should not be limited to expensive cruise ships and has demanded operations from Mumbai to Karnataka's Mangaluru via regional ports along Konkan, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, and Goa.

According to HVP, the existing rail and road networks are severely congested, making it difficult for local residents to travel between Mumbai, Konkan, and Goa. The organization noted that long-distance trains running from hubs like Delhi and Chennai offer limited availability to local residents, while passengers from other states benefit.

HVP has cited data from a September 2025 Ministry of Commerce and Industry report, which showcases sea transport as the most economical transit mode at only Rs 1.80 per km compared to airway cost of Rs 72 per km.

The advocacy group has pointed out that Maharashtra previously sustained successful passenger ferry services, referencing popular former vessels like 'Konkan Shakti', 'Konkan Sevak', and the 'Damania Catamaran'. The group has also highlighted successful contemporary models, such as a solar-assisted Ro-Pax service that has efficiently transported over 15.7 lakh passengers, 2.17 lakh cars, and 1.99 lakh cargo vehicles running between Gujarat's Hazira and Ghogha.

HVP has demanded a time-bound introduction of a dedicated passenger-and-vehicle ferry service covering the entire coastal line from Mumbai to Mangaluru with pocket-friendly tariffs. The group has urged the maritime board to prioritize public utility over commercial ventures, noting that opening waterways to everyday citizens will boost local economies, promote eco-friendly tourism, and allow travelers to seamlessly transport personal two-wheelers and four-wheelers along the coast.

The introduction of affordable water transport would provide a natural, low-capital alternative to costly highway projects and toll infrastructure. It would also provide a convenient and economical mode of transportation for local residents, promoting tourism and economic growth in the region.

In conclusion, the demand for affordable water transport by HVP is a step towards promoting public utility and eco-friendly tourism in the region. It remains to be seen how the state government and maritime authorities will respond to this demand and whether it will become a reality in the near future.

The success of such a project would depend on the effective utilization of existing ports and infrastructure, as well as the implementation of efficient and affordable services. If implemented, it could have a significant impact on the local economy and provide a convenient mode of transportation for residents and tourists alike.

Overall, the introduction of affordable water transport between Mumbai and Mangaluru would be a welcome move, promoting economic growth, tourism, and public utility in the region.