Panaji: Two newly built ferries for the Panaji-Betim route will undergo final trials in the Mandovi on Monday before their expected launch next week. As opposed to traditional seven-knot ferry boats in Goa that have capacity for six cars and 100 passengers, the new vessels have a capacity of nine cars and around 150 passengers. The vessels are slightly faster than existing ferries at nine knots and aim to improve efficiency and reduce congestion on the state’s busiest river crossing route, which sees a daily footfall of 11,000 passengers.River navigation director Vikram Rajebhosale said, “The ferry boats— Salaulim and Kushavati— have already cleared preliminary checks, with certification processes under way. Monday’s trials will focus on performance across varying depths and operational conditions before formal handover. The emphasis is on improved design and efficiency rather than sheer speed.”The ferries represent an investment of roughly Rs 4 crore and are expected to cater to vehicular traffic from Calangute, Betim, and Porvorim. “After trials and formal induction, the ferries are likely to be inaugurated next week ,” Rajebhosale told TOI.
