Goa expects to earn Rs 3.65 crore through passenger ships

Panaji, Feb 2 (PTI) Goa government expects to earn arevenue of Rs 3.65 crore annually through its passenger ships,which ferry people from island to the mainland.

State River Navigation Minister Ramakrishna Dhavalikartold the State Legislative Assembly today that there are 12ferry boat routes connecting various islands, which transportpeople to the mainland.

He said people living on islands will not be charged forthe service but other commuters will have to pay Rs 2 per headand Rs 5 per two-wheeler.

The government has identified seven islands for thispurpose, he said in a reply was tabled on the floor of theHouse.

On all 12 routes, 17 ferry boats have been pressed intoservice.

Dhavalikar said the proposal to charge commuters and twowheelers is based on the recommendation of the committeeappointed by the government to study River Navigationdepartment and suggest improvement of the functioning of thedepartment.

The minister said an additional 20 posts of ticketcollectors is required at the first instance if the toll-feeis to be collected from commuters and two-wheelers.