NT Reporter Panaji
Chaos erupted in the Assembly after River Navigation Minister Subhash Phal Dessai alleged that certain individuals were deliberately trying to mislead the public and portray the government negatively by claiming that the new Ro-Ro ferries are substandard.
The minister made the statement during Zero Hour when St Andre RGP MLA Viresh Borkar said that locals from Chorao and other parts of Goa were anxious over ferry fares, the discontinuation of traditional ferry services. He also raised their demand for an additional ferry on the Chorao route.
Phal Dessai said that four-wheeler traffic on the Chorao route has increased by 30 per cent, while two-wheeler traffic has seen a 40 per cent rise. “During peak hours from 7.30 am to 10.30 am, additional ferries have been deployed. If needed, more ferries will be added. Everything is moving smoothly,” said Phal Dessai.
He said that revenue on the Chorao ferry route has risen from Rs 6,000 per day to Rs 30,000, projecting annual earnings of Rs 1 crore. Referring to the state’s 18 ferry routes where 32 ferries operate, Phal Dessai said earlier annual revenue stood at Rs 56 lakh while expenditure amounted to Rs 76 crore.
Regarding fare hikes, the minister said, “There is a marginal increase—from Rs 10 to Rs 30 for cars. If commuters opt for a pass system, the fare is Rs 15. I don’t think Rs 15 will be a problem for a four-wheeler.”
He alleged that “people shoot videos of the new Ro-Ro ferries showing poor washroom conditions or damaged seats and circulate them to spread a negative narrative, especially during the Assembly session.”
Borkar countered, stating that fears surrounding the Ro-Ro ferry were valid. “Fares are unaffordable for many, and the recent rope incident raises serious safety concerns. The government must clarify its intentions and ensure daily commuters are not burdened,” he said.
He urged the state to review and rationalise ferry fares, ensure full transparency in safety and operations, and consult local communities.
