Mumbai:
The Hindu Vidhijna Parishad has accused the state government of deliberately ignoring sea transport, despite it being significantly cheaper, eco-friendly, and safer compared to air, rail, and road transport.
The organization demanded that the government immediately start passenger water transport for common citizens instead of restricting the natural maritime routes solely to luxury cruise tourism for the affluent. In this regard, Advocate Virendra Ichalkaranjikar, National President of the Hindu Vidhijna Parishad, has sent a detailed letter to the Home Secretary (Ports and Transport) and the Maharashtra Maritime Board to draw the government’s attention to the issue.
Water Transport: The Most Cost-Effective Alternative
According to a report by the Union Ministry of Commerce, the cost of road transport is ₹3.78 per kilometer, while rail transport costs ₹1.96 per kilometer. In comparison, water transport costs a mere ₹1.80 per kilometer, making it an extremely economical option for the general public.
Relief for Konkan Commuters
Currently, most trains passing through the Konkan region originate from long-distance locations such as Delhi and Chennai, meaning they are often fully reserved in advance. Local passengers face severe challenges getting space even in general unreserved compartments. The letter highlighted that starting a ‘Ro-Pax’ passenger ferry service between Mumbai and Mangaluru (Karnataka) would ease the heavy burden on the Konkan Railway and ensure smooth travel for local residents.
Examples from Other States and Abroad
In the past, passenger ferry services like ‘Konkan Shakti’, ‘Konkan Sevak’, and ‘Damania Catamaran’ operated in Maharashtra.
However, over time, the state government failed to sustain this system. Meanwhile, the ‘Hazira to Ghogha’ ferry service is running successfully in neighboring Gujarat, and passenger boats capable of traveling at speeds of 58 knots are operational in South America. The organization raised a pertinent concern over whether maritime water transport is being intentionally neglected due to financial interests tied to road and bridge construction contracts and toll collection.
Key Demands of Hindu Vidhijna Parishad:
* Launch a time-bound ‘Ro-Pax’ passenger water transport service between Mumbai and Mangaluru (Karnataka).
* Formulate an affordable fare structure for common citizens and implement it without delay.
* Prioritize using commercial ports for passenger water transport alongside trade development.