PANAJI: Goa currently operates ferry services on eight routes, and the State government hopes to upgrade all of them to Roll on, Roll off (Ro-Ro) services, said Chief Minister Pramod Sawant today as he launched two modern Ro-Ro ferries, Gangotri and Dwarka, on the Chorao, Ribandar route.
Calling it the first Ro-Ro service of its kind in India, Sawant said the project marks a significant step forward in Goa’s waterway transport infrastructure. “With this service, we are setting a national example. It will not only benefit local commuters but also boost tourism,” he said.
Built under a public-private partnership (PPP) model and constructed entirely in Goa, the new ferries promise faster, safer, and more efficient transport across the Mandovi. Each ferry can carry 15 to 16 vehicles, four times the capacity of a conventional ferry, and features dual end ramps to enable smooth, continuous movement of traffic. The crossing time between Ribandar and Chorao is now reduced to just 5 to 7 minutes.
“We are giving people good facilities, AC cabins, faster service, and zero carbon emissions. In return, the public must support us. A nominal fee of Rs 5 and a pass system will go a long way in sustaining the service,” the CM said, urging people to look at the time and fuel savings. “The government is already bearing 100% of the cost. This will be a model for other ferry routes.”
Highlighting the service's emergency utility, Sawant added, “Ambulances will no longer face delays. This is not just convenience, it’s life-saving.”
Union Minister and North Goa MP Shripad Naik called the launch a “proud Make in India, Make in Goa moment,” and said the ferries will end the daily hassle of long waits for commuters.
River Navigation Minister Subhash Phal Dessai, who oversaw the ferry trials and inspections, said the service will be reviewed after a month and could be extended to other routes. “Earlier, six ferries ran with six engines. Now, we manage the route with just four engines powering two Ro-Ros, a huge cut in fuel consumption and emissions.”
Phal Dessai also dismissed criticism over the names Gangotri and Dwarka. “Gangotri is a sacred name symbolising the origin of the Ganga. This controversy is baseless. When there's no fault in the project, opponents focus on irrelevant issues.”
The vessels, built by Goa-based Vijay Marine, feature clearly marked lanes for two and four wheelers, air-conditioned seating, emergency medical kits, and a trained crew. Captains underwent over 100 hours of training to operate the ferries safely in varying river conditions.
