Panaji, March 20: Transportation in Goa gained a good strength as ferry services and a new jetty between Baina beach, Vasco and Old Goa.
Union minister for road transport and highway, shipping and water resources, river development and Ganga rejuvenation Nitin Gadkari inaugurated this morning ferry services and a new jetty at Baina beach, Vasco in South Goa. The first-of-its-kind service in Goa will connect the Airport Ferry Terminal at Baina to Panjim and Sinquerim.
Speaking on the occasion, Gadkari called for an integrated approach to development and environment while taking care of the poor. He said that the country’s approximately 7,700 km coastline can significantly contribute to development and tourism. Gadkari said that 49 percent of capex in the tourism sector goes into employment, and poverty and unemployment are the two biggest challenges for the country.
He said that efficient use of waterways will also significantly reduce pollution and logistics costs, besides addressing unemployment issues. He said that 111 rivers across India will be converted into inland waterways.
The minister clarified that state governments will operate the waterways and the central government will only play a supportive role in optimization of water routes. Gadkari requested the Goa government to explore fishing harbour projects to help the fishermen community and develop the state as a cruise ship destination to boost employment.