Scrap old ferries, explore PPP model for operations: GCCI

Panaji: Considering the financial burden on govt while procuring and maintaining ferries for the river navigation department, all new ferries could be introduced under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, said the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Saturday.
Procurement of ferries through a PPP model will not only enhance service quality but also ensure better maintenance and efficient management, said GCCI. The new ferries could be solar-powered, and private investors can be given longer routes with multiple stops and advertisement rights to make the PPP model viable, said GCCI’s logistics committee chairman, Chandrakant Gawas.
Another avenue for govt to reduce costs and increase revenue would be to outsource the existing river navigation dockyard, which has been incurring losses. GCCI has recommended that the dockyard should be outsourced to a private operator with expertise in ship maintenance and repair.
Gawas led a GCCI delegation to meet minister for river navigation Subhash Phal Dessai, where GCCI discussed matters related to the operation and management of the ferry services. Gawas told the minister that the ferry services need immediate attention.
“Nine ferries became obsolete and are no longer in a condition to provide safe and reliable service and are lying in the river navigation yard in Betim. The unserviceable ferries should be scrapped at the earliest to free up operational costs and space. The free space created can be converted to a parking area for private yachts and boats, which can generate revenue for govt,” said Gawas.
GCCI has also said that ferries operating with a single engine pose a significant safety risk, especially in case of engine failure. To ensure passenger safety and operational reliability, GCCI has recommended that all single-engine ferries be phased out immediately.
Dessai informed GCCI that govt is looking at the feasibility of operating water taxis for locals and tourists.