PANAJI
Solar ferries, modern ferries and even a regular Vasco to Panaji ferry service is on the River Navigation Department’s plan, according to Minister Subhash Phaldesai.
Phaldesai said that increased focus on river transport would take the stress off road transport on Goa’s roads, especially along national highways and major district roads (MDR).
“We had 25 routes earlier and it has come down to 18. There have been no innovations in ferries. We are trying to get some innovative ideas and fuse them and try to impress upon the public that river transport is better than road transport. The shabby conditions of the ferry boats have to be improved and more comforts have to be added,” Phaldesai said.
“If the government gives an option, in order to reduce burden on roads, MDR roads and highways we can start a ferry service from Vasco to Panaji, the busiest route,” the minister said.
Phaldesai also said that the department might introduce a solar-powered ferry in the state’s waterways soon.
“If we have ample sunlight resource that can get converted, we can have a solar ferry boat. One ferry boat of such technology is already there. Very soon we will launch that too,” he said.
