The ferries, named Kushavati and Salaulim, were recently inaugurated at the upgraded Betim ferry ramp under the guidance of Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, as reported by officials from the river navigation department.
Quicker and more enjoyable travel
The Panaji-Betim crossing ranks among the most frequented river routes in Goa, catering to both daily commuters and tourists.
According to officials, the newly launched ferries are more spacious than traditional vessels and boast modern, cruise-like amenities. They are equipped with twin 480-horsepower engines and utilize a hydraulic navigation and ramp operation system, replacing the older manual method.
Each ferry can hold nearly 150 passengers and accommodate up to eight cars, facilitating smoother traffic flow between Panaji and Betim.
Commute time reduced by nearly 50%
Regular users of the service noted that the new ferries have made travel faster and more seamless.
“Absolutely the best. Earlier, the journey took around six minutes; now it takes about three minutes,” Betim commuter Chetan Bhosle stated, according to PTI. He also praised the improved onboard facilities.
Another commuter, Sandeep Dongrekar, remarked that the upgraded service would greatly assist daily travelers, offering enhanced amenities and a more pleasant experience.
Advancing inland water transport
Officials mentioned that this initiative is part of the Goa government’s wider strategy to promote inland water transport as a quicker, cost-effective, and more sustainable travel alternative.
The revamped ferry service is also set to alleviate vehicular congestion on roads linking Panaji and Betim, particularly during peak traffic periods.
For visitors to Goa, the new ferries present a faster and more convenient option for crossing the Mandovi River while traveling between Panaji and the adjacent areas of North Goa.
(Edited by : priyanka deshpande)
