This Mumbai-Goa ferry service lets you bring your vehicles along
What's the story
M2M Ferries, the company famous for its roll-on, roll-off (Ro-Ro) service between Mumbai and Mandwa, is gearing up to launch a new RoPAX ferry service.
The new service will connect Mumbai and Goa, transporting both passengers and vehicles.
To achieve this, M2M Ferries has acquired a 15-year-old RoPAX vessel from Italy. The ferry is set to complete Mumbai-Goa journey in 6.5 hours.
The company intends to run RoPAX service from Ferry Wharf in Mazgaon (Mumbai) to Mormugao Port Authority (Goa).
Capacity and affordability
RoPAX vessel to accommodate 620 passengers, 60 cars
The new RoPAX vessel can carry as many as 620 passengers and 60 cars.
Although the fare structure for this service is still being worked out, M2M Ferries is hopeful of getting subsidies on fuel and tax concessions from the central government.
These financial aids would make the service more affordable for the users.
Approval process
M2M Ferries's application under review by shipping authorities
The Director General of Shipping, Shyam Jagannathan, has confirmed that M2M Ferries's application for the new service is under review.
Chief Ship Surveyor Pradeep Sudhakar further said that the documents have now been forwarded to the Indian Register of Shipping for additional clearance.
If approved, this Mumbai-Goa RoPAX ferry will join other similar services in India like those operating between Hazira and Ghogha in Gujarat.
Infrastructure development
Maharashtra Maritime Board building new jetties for Ro-Ro services
In related news, the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) is also building new jetties for Ro-Ro services at Kashid, Revdanda, and Dighi on the Raigad coast.
These facilities are expected to be ready in about 18 months.
The state government also plans to launch a Ro-Ro service connecting Dighi's upcoming industrial town, further expanding maritime transportation options in the region.