On October 13, 2022, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal launched a Solar-Electric Hybrid High Speed Ferry and inaugurated a Floating Jetty project in Panaji.
The Minister officially launched the Jetty project before boarding the Solar-Electric Hybrid High-Speed Ferry. The three jetties inaugurated were built at a cost of 9.6 crores by the Inland Waterways Authority of India. The jetties are solid concrete structures that float on water, are simple to build, and have a low environmental impact. The Goa government is funding the Solar-Electric Hybrid High-Speed Ferry project, which has a carrying capacity of 60 passengers and a cost of over 3.9 crores. The hybrid design reduces operating costs by eliminating reliance on fossil fuels and presents a more environmentally friendly mode of transportation.
Union Minister Sonowal addressed the event, praising Goa’s scenic beauty and adding that these two projects will help the state attract more tourists. Such projects, he believes, will help Goa become one of the most appealing tourist destinations in the country. He went on to say that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has made significant strides in port modernization.
Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa, stated that solar electric hybrids will help reduce the state’s reliance on fossil fuels. The Goa government will introduce and operate more solar ferry boats throughout the state. Shripad Naik, Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, Waterways, and Tourism, as well as ministers from the Goa State Government, were also in attendance.
