The Port of London Authority (PLA) is aiming to get the most out of the River Thames by doubling its passenger traffic and increasing the amount of cargo that passes through its terminals.

Boats called Clippers on the River Thames currently offer ten million commuters in London an alternative travel route to work, but the PLA hopes to double this number, reports The Daily Telegraph.

The Clippers run between Putney to Woolwich Arsenal, but the PLA is working to maximise the use of the Thames for the benefit of rush-hour commuters.

Speaking on this vision, PLA chief executive Robin Mortimer said: "We're the custodians of the river. We own the freehold, have the responsibility for its use and growing it, as well as keeping it safe."

Mr Mortimer has said that over the past ten years, the number of journeys the PLA has provided has increased from four million to ten million. Although he says this is "a fraction of buses and Tubes" the service that the PLA provides is the best choice for people "within reasonable walking distance of a pier at either end of the journey".

The main reason behind the PLA's plans to offer more Clippers is to help reduce waste and pollution caused by travel in the capital.