Venita Gomes
The Goa Government will now charge Rs 10 for two wheelers, and Rs 40 for three and four wheelers interested in availing ferry services across Goa.
Goa's ferry service is a unique mode of transport, which allows travellers to get from one side of the river to the other in the absence of a bridge. This service was free of cost all these years, but now, the BJP government has decided to charge the public for this essential service.
As per the new rates, the Goa Government will charge two wheeler riders Rs 10 for every trip. Alternatively, they can avail of a monthly pass of Rs 150 to use the ferry services.
Those travelling by three and four wheelers will have to fork out Rs 40 for each trip. They can avoid per trip charges and opt for the monthly pass which costs Rs 600.
Vehicles using the ferry services for commercial purposes will be charged Rs 100, while a monthly pass will cost Rs 1,500.
A monthly pass of Rs 6,000, and per trip charges of Rs 400 will be levied on heavy vehicles.
Ferry services used for cargo will be charged Rs 50 per tonne.
For island-dwellers who are not connected by bridge, the ferry service is the only mode of transport to the mainland, and these fees will come as an additional burden to them.