Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, May 19: The Goa government has introduced two modern ferry boats on the busy Panaji-Betim route across the Mandovi River to improve inland water transport and reduce road congestion.

The ferries, named Kushavati and Salaulim, were launched at the upgraded Betim ferry ramp under the leadership of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, officials from the river navigation department said.

The Panaji-Betim crossing is among the busiest river routes in Goa and is extensively used by both daily commuters and tourists.

Officials said the newly introduced ferries are larger than conventional vessels and feature modern cruise-like facilities. The boats are powered by twin 480-horsepower engines and use a hydraulic navigation and ramp operating system, replacing the older manual mechanism.

Each ferry can carry around 150 passengers and up to eight cars, which officials said would help improve traffic movement between Panaji and Betim.

Commuters welcomed the upgraded service, saying travel time on the route had reduced significantly.

Chetan Bhosle, a resident of Betim, said the journey earlier took nearly six minutes but now gets completed in about three minutes. He also praised the cleaner onboard facilities.

Another commuter, Sandeep Dongrekar, said the new ferries would benefit regular travellers due to improved amenities and a more comfortable commuting experience.

Officials stated that the initiative is part of the Goa government’s larger plan to promote inland water transport as a faster, economical and sustainable mode of travel.

The upgraded ferry service is also expected to reduce vehicular pressure on roads connecting Panaji and Betim, particularly during peak traffic hours.

Authorities added that the new ferries would provide tourists with a quicker and more convenient way to cross the Mandovi River while travelling between Panaji and nearby North Goa regions.