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News18
15-07-2025
- News18
Goa Launches India's First RoRo Ferry Service On Mandovi River, Details Inside
Last Updated: New high-speed ferries slash travel time and boost tourism, promising a modern upgrade to daily commute The Goa government has introduced two brand-new Roll on-Roll off (RoRo) ferries named Gangotri and Dwarka on the busy Chorao–Ribandar route across the Mandovi river. These advanced ferries will replace the old conventional boats and drastically cut travel time for daily commuters and tourists alike. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant inaugurated the ferries, proudly calling them India's first RoRo ferry service of this kind. 'This is a big leap for Goa's water transport. These ferries have more capacity and modern technology, making travel easier and quicker. They will help locals and attract more visitors to Goa," he shared at the launch event, as per The Indian Express. Each RoRo ferry can carry up to 100 passengers, 15 cars, and 30 to 40 two-wheelers. The ferries cruise at 10 knots—double the speed of traditional boats. This means the journey from Chorao island to Ribandar will now take only 12–13 minutes instead of 30. The vessels also come with many thoughtful features: clearly marked lanes for vehicles, an air-conditioned passenger area, and emergency medical kits. Designed by Vijai Marine Shipyards, the ferries will operate under a Built-Own-Operate-Transfer model at zero cost to the state government. The RoRo ferries are expected to benefit both tourists and locals. With marked lanes for vehicles, air-conditioned passenger cabins, and emergency medical kits onboard, the ferries promise a safer and more convenient travel experience. view comments First Published: July 15, 2025, 14:28 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Indian Express
15-07-2025
- Indian Express
What are RoRo ferries, which Goa hopes will replace traditional boats?
The Goa government has launched two Roll on-Roll off (RoRo) ferry boats – 'Gangotri' and 'Dwarka' – on the Chorao-Ribandar route in the Mandovi river. The ferries, with a higher capacity, will replace the conventional boats and drastically cut travel time for commuters. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who inaugurated the vessels Monday, said it is the first-of-its kind RoRo ferry service in India. 'This is a significant advancement in Goa's waterway infrastructure. The new ferries, with higher capacity and improved technology, replace conventional boats, substantially reducing wait times and service interruptions while enhancing commuter comfort. It will benefit the local commuters and also boost tourism. We remain committed to adopting modern innovations that strengthen ease of living across the state,' he said. 'People should know that when the government is constructing any jetty, it would only be for the public transport and not for any other purpose,' he added. Sawant said the modern ferries will operate at double the speed and have a higher capacity. He said the ferries have been commissioned with a zero cost to the government and are eco-friendly and efficient. 'The government is considering plans to add more RoRo ferries on other inland waterway routes,' he said. Each RoRo ferry can accommodate up to 100 passengers, at least 15 four wheelers and 30-40 two wheelers, significantly easing the load on traditional ferry services. With a running speed of 10 knots – twice that of conventional ferries – the new vessels will ensure faster travel and reduced waiting time for commuters, officials said. The ferry boats have been designed and built by Vijai Marine Shipyards and would be operating on a Built-Own-Operate-Transfer basis. The vessels have clearly marked lanes for two wheelers and four wheelers, an air-conditioned compartment for passengers and emergency medical kits. River Navigation Minister Subhash Phal Desai told media persons that the travel time from Chorao island to Ribandar (near Panaji) would be 12-13 minutes with the RoRo ferry service, as against 30 minutes taken by the conventional ferry boats.
