Govt clears RoRo ramps on Sao Pedro-Divar route

Panaji: With in-principle approval for two new 21-metre RoRo ferries on the Sao Pedro-Divar route, the state government has also approved construction of the ferry ramps.Vikram Rajebhosale, director, river navigation department, said modifying the ramps is technically challenging, as the gradient must precisely match the new RoRo ferries.

“The Smart City has agreed to undertake its widening and has already started the paperwork and design finalisation.

Work will begin in Dec,” he said. “The naval architect has already completed the general arrangement drawing of the ferryboat, and we are proceeding with the next stages of the process accordingly.”The upcoming RoRo ferries aim to improve transportation efficiency for Divar residents by allowing vehicles to roll directly onto the ferry, reducing travel time and reliance on narrow bridge routes during peak hours.

Bigger than the traditional 19-metre ferries but smaller than existing 35-metre RoRo vessels, they are expected to be ready by June 2026.“The two new RoRos should be able to fit eight to nine four-wheelers, 20-22 two-wheelers, and 50 passengers. Works for building the ferries will be tendered soon,” Rajebhosale said.The ferries will also feature upgraded thrusters designed to clear river debris within three hours, enhancing operational efficiency.