Panaji : To support efficient vessel operations, maintenance, and fleet management under the water metro project in the state, dedicated boat parking facilities have been proposed along the Mandovi river at Betim, Chorao, and Old Goa.
The proposed facilities aim to reduce congestion at passenger terminals, enable orderly berthing of vessels during non-operational hours, and improve overall system reliability.
Kochi Rail Metro Limited (KMRL) has identified seven routes which are feasible for starting a water metro in Goa in the first phase. The project’s economic internal rate of return (EIRR) has been calculated at 15.83 per cent, indicating that the project is economically viable, the feasibility report prepared by KMRL stated.
KMRL obtained the route-wise financial internal rate of return (FIRR) for 30 years’ life cycle with all taxes and duties. The highest projected FIRR was for Panaji-Reis Magos-Fort Aguada-Baga Creek-Chapora Viewpoint route with 12.58 per cent, followed by Panaji-Britona-Chorao Island-Amboi-Vanxim-Naroa with 7.86 per cent.
The Cortalim-Marcaim-Rassai-Adpai-Durbhat however showed the lowest FIRR with 1.17 per cent.
KMRL said the proposed project has the potential to significantly transform the state’s overall mobility framework and redefine its tourism and transport landscape. It is envisaged as a comprehensive, statewide intervention that will change the countenance of Goa by introducing a modern, organised, and sustainable water-based transport network.
“The project is planned as a unified network serving the entire state of Goa rather than isolated corridors, thereby acting as a holistic mobility solution,” it said.
KMRL said the proposed system may face challenges due to exposure to sea-river confluence conditions, particularly near Fort Aguada, where strong waves and tidal forces may require breakwater structures, increasing capital and maintenance costs.
It also pointed out that presently Goa’s water transport operates largely in an unorganised and fragmented manner.
“The proposed project will transition this system into an integrated and structured public transport mode, benefiting not only domestic and foreign tourists but also local commuters who rely on daily connectivity for work, education, and essential services,” it said.
