Just weeks after launching, Goa’s Ro-Ro ferry, Gangotri is drawing attention for the wrong reasons. Passengers recently noticed that parts of the interior ceiling panels were hanging loosely, prompting safety concerns and questions over maintenance. The ferry, introduced as part of an initiative to modernise river transport along the Ribandar-Chorao route, was designed with improved passenger comfort and vehicle capacity. Along with its sister vessel Dwarka, Gangotri was hailed as a game-changer when introduced, but issues like this suggest a lack of regular upkeep.
This isn’t the first delay or issue associated with Goa’s Ro-Ro fleet. Prior to their launch, the ferries faced setbacks due to technical adjustments, propeller realignments, and ramp upgrades. Despite this, the state moved forward with the rollout, branding it a step toward more efficient inland water transport. The River Navigation Department (RND), responsible for ferry operations, is yet to release a formal statement about the incident. However, given the importance of the route and its high commuter traffic, experts emphasise the need for prompt inspections and ongoing maintenance.
