PANAJI
In a move to reduce dependence on fossil fuel, the State government launched the first solar electric hybrid ferry boat and inaugurated floating jetty at Panaji ferry point on Thursday.
The Rs 3.97 crore worth solar electric hybrid ferry boat which will operate on the Chorao-Panaji route will be used only for ferrying passengers and not vehicles.
Speaking at the launch, in the presence of Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal and Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shripad Naik, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said, the government will introduce more such boats to reduce dependence on fossil fuel.
He also said, the government will install floating jetties at other places in the State if required.
The 60 passenger capacity ferry boat can run on electricity, solar power or diesel.
Sonowal said Goa is the most beautiful State having scenic beauty of nature beaches which attracts tourists from across the world.
He said that these two projects will definitely add to the dimension of the potentiality to provide latest facilities to enhance global and domestic tourists.
Such projects will help to create best facilities for users and this is the best way to convert Goa as one of the most attractive destinations in the country, he pointed.
