Digital Goa, Nov 3-River Navigation Dept Minister Subhash Phal Dessai today said that opinion of people will be considered before taking the decision of Ferry boat fare issue. “If people don’t want, govt will take a decision. CM will intervene if the need be and decision will be taken,” he said. We will speak to MLAs and local leaders also, he added but appealed to people to accept the proposal. The objective of introducing tickets for two-wheelers and increasing the ferry boat travel fare for four-wheelers is to generate revenue for enhancing the service and plug revenue leakage through technology, asserted Phal Dessai. Ferry boat users from across the state, especially islanders have objected to the proposal by the govt. With no other mode of transport other than ferry boats, the hike will put substantial burden on common man, said commuters. Phal Dessai claimed that Rs 40 to 50 crore are being spent to provide the free ferry service and the same money can be used to enhance the service, do away with old ferry boats and introduce state-of-the-art ferry boats. Fare of Rs 5 per trip is proposed to be introduced for two-wheelers and Rs 40 per trip for four-wheelers. Option of monthly pass of Rs 150 for two-wheelers and Rs 600 for four-wheelers is also proposed. The entire process of taking and renewing passes as well as daily ticketing is to be digitised.
