MAPUSA
River Navigation Minister Subhash Phal Dessai on Tuesday came to the defence of the Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) ferry service, asserting that certain individuals were trying to portray the initiative negatively by circulating misleading videos and information online.
Responding to concerns raised during the Zero Hour by St Andre MLA Viresh Borkar, the minister claimed that contrary to criticism, the Ro-Ro service had led to a significant uptick in usage. “Since the introduction of Ro-Ro ferries, we have seen a 30 per cent increase in four-wheeler traffic and 40 per cent in two-wheeler usage. These numbers prove the service is being well-received,” Phal Dessai said.
Borkar, however, voiced the dissatisfaction of locals from Chorao and surrounding areas, pointing out a rise in ferry charges and the perceived neglect of traditional ferry services.
“Earlier, the charge for four-wheelers was just Rs 10. Now it’s Rs 30. This increase is affecting regular commuters. The public is demanding a rollback to Rs 10,” Borkar said, while also calling for the deployment of an additional traditional ferry on the Chorao route to cope with demand.
In response, Phal Dessai acknowledged the concerns but reiterated the government’s commitment to modernising inland transport. “There is a deliberate attempt to malign the initiative through selective and negative video content. People are trying to show the government in poor light,” he said, without naming anyone specifically.
The minister stopped short of announcing a fare rollback but indicated the department would review operations and explore balancing modernisation with traditional needs.
