Rs 75 lakh project to include renovation, toilet blocks, shed for commuters, seating
River Navigation Minister Subhash Phaldessai, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte and Saligao MLA Kedar Naik during the ceremony to lay the foundation stone for the beautification of the Betim ferry wharf.
PORVORIM
River Navigation Minister Subhash Phal Dessai on Thursday laid the foundation stone for the Rs 75 lakh beautification of the Betim ferry wharf.
The project which is expected to be completed in three months will include the renovation of the jetty, construction of toilet blocks, shed for commuters, illumination, shifting of kiosks, and seating arrangements.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, Saligao MLA Kedar Naik, ZP Sandeep Bandodkar, Reis Magos Sarpanch Sushmita Pednekar, Penha de Franca Sarpanch Swapnil Chodankar and panch members were present on the occasion.
Addressing a gathering, Phal Dessai said the beautification of the Betim ferry wharf had been a long-pending demand of residents from Reis Magos.
“About 10,000 commuters use this ferry service everyday, of which over 20 per cent are tourists. At present, traditional ferry boats are plying on this route. The RND will introduce shortly two new larger and faster ferry boats. If the need arises, RND will introduce Ro-Ro ferry boats on this route,” said Phal Dessai.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said the Betim Jetty is a tourism spot and is being used not only by commuters of Saligao and Porvorim constituencies but also by tourists.
“Once the beautification of the Betim Jetty is completed, commuters will get better amenities,” said Khaunte.
Saligao MLA Kedar Naik said he had been pursuing the beautification of the Betim ferry wharf with the RND since the last 2 years.
“The Betim ferry wharf lacked basic facilities like a shed and toilet blocks for commuters.The beautification of this tourist spot will enhance the beauty of Reis Magos village,” said Naik.
Penha de Franca Sarpanch Swapnil Chodankar later proposed the vote of thanks.
