Panaji: After a salvage operation of almost eleven days, the ferryboat ‘Betim’, which was partially sunk at Chorao ferry ramp, was refloated on Friday morning. The salvage cost the
state government an amount of approximately Rs 25-30 lakh.
“Our workshop team and the salvagers worked for almost 11 days. There were lots of difficulties, like rain and tide issues, but they have managed to refloat it. A time limit cannot be provided for a salvage operation underwater, as there are many difficulties. There is poor visibility, and also no work can be carried out at night,” River Navigation director Vikramsinh Rajebhosale said.
He said that the ferryboat has no defect and there is no crack or puncture in the hull.
“The repairs to the ferryboat will be carried out at the marine workshop at Betim and will be back in operation within a month’s time,” he said.
