Team Goemkarponn
BETIM: In the wake of the recent closure of the Old Mandovi Bridge, the North Goa District Congress Committee, along with the Saligao block Congress and the Goa Pradesh Youth Congress, has urged the River Navigation Department to increase ferry services between Betim and Panjim.
This demand comes as commuters face significant delays and inconvenience due to the insufficient existing ferry services.
On February 18, 2025, a memorandum was submitted to the Director of the River Navigation Department, emphasizing the urgent need to enhance ferry services. The letter, signed by Virendra Shirodkar, President of the North Goa District Congress Committee, and Vivek D’silva, Vice-President of the Goa Pradesh Youth Congress Committee, highlights the critical issues arising from the bridge closure.
“The existing ferry services are unable to accommodate the increased demand, causing delays and inconvenience to the public,” the letter states. The committee is seeking an immediate increase in the number of ferries plying between Betim and Panjim to address this situation.
Key demands include reducing travel delays for daily commuters, easing congestion on existing ferries, and providing a reliable and accessible alternative for those affected by the bridge closure. The letter underscores the importance of prompt action to meet the growing demand, stating, “Your prompt response to this issue will be highly appreciated by the public.”
“We strongly urge the River Navigation Department to increase the number of ferries plying between Betim and Panjim,” the letter emphasizes. This call to action is driven by the significant surge in commuter traffic and the resultant delays and inconveniences.
The closure of the Old Mandovi Bridge has created a logistical nightmare for commuters, particularly those travelling between Betim and Panjim. This area is a critical transit point, with many officegoers and students relying on efficient transportation to reach their destinations. The existing ferry services, while helpful, are currently insufficient to handle the increased load, leading to congestion and delays.
The Mandovi Bridge closure is part of a broader infrastructure adjustment in the region, with ongoing works and closures affecting various aspects of daily life in Goa. The timing of the closure has been criticized for its potential to exacerbate traffic issues, especially during peak hours.
