Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: The State government is planning to introduce two new roll-on roll-off (Ro-Ro) ferries on the Diwar–São Pedro route in a move aimed at improving river connectivity and reducing congestion for daily commuters.
Officials from the River Navigation Department (RND) said the proposed ferries will be smaller in size compared to the existing Ro-Ro vessels operating on the Ribandar–Chorao stretch, but will be specifically designed to suit traffic needs on the Diwar crossing. Each ferry is expected to carry multiple cars, two-wheelers and passengers in a single trip, helping cut down long waiting times, particularly during peak hours.
To facilitate the new service, dedicated ramps will be constructed at both Diwar and São Pedro jetties. The department plans to take up the infrastructure work well ahead of the monsoon so that the service can be rolled out smoothly once the vessels are delivered.
The RND indicated that the ferries are likely to be ready by mid-2026, with full-fledged operations expected to commence by the end of the year. The project is part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen inland water transport and offer reliable alternatives to road travel, especially for island communities.
At present, Ro-Ro services are operational on the Ribandar–Chorao route, where they have significantly eased traffic movement and reduced travel time. Encouraged by the response, the department is exploring the possibility of extending Ro-Ro connectivity to other important river crossings in the State.
Officials said the expansion of Ro-Ro services will not only
benefit residents but also improve access for emergency services and support tourism-related movement across Goa’s river network.
