Daijiworld Media Network- Goa
Goa, Jul 22: In a revolutionary step that promises to transform travel along the Konkan coast, the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) is all set to launch India’s first-ever car ferry train service between Kolad in Maharashtra and Verna in Goa, offering a faster, safer and more comfortable alternative to the usually taxing road journey.
The initiative, strategically timed ahead of the Ganesh Chaturthi rush, will allow travellers to load their private vehicles onto the train and ride in attached passenger coaches, covering the distance in just 12 hours—as against the typical 20-22 hours by road due to traffic congestion and winding ghats.
As per initial reports, the train will depart Kolad at 5 PM and is expected to reach Verna by 5 am the next morning. Passengers will need to report at Kolad station by 2 PM to complete vehicle loading and boarding procedures.
Each train will include 20 specially designed wagons, with each wagon accommodating two vehicles, making for a total capacity of 40 cars per journey. However, the service will be operational only if at least 16 vehicles are booked for a trip.
The freight charge has been fixed at Rs7,875 per car for a one-way trip. Konkan Railway has emphasized strict safety measures—cars will be securely fastened with belts and must have their handbrakes engaged. Importantly, passengers will not be allowed to remain inside vehicles during the journey.
With thousands of people from Mumbai, Pune, and other parts of Maharashtra heading to Goa during festive seasons and holidays, the new service is being hailed as a game-changer, especially for those travelling with families and personal vehicles.
KRCL officials are optimistic that the initiative will significantly decongest highways, reduce travel fatigue, and provide a green alternative by cutting down on fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
A formal launch date is expected to be announced shortly, with trial runs already underway.
This marks a major milestone for Indian Railways and Konkan Railway, setting a new benchmark in multi-modal transport solutions for the country.