PONDA: Regular commuters on the Marcaim-Cortalim ferry route, following a harrowing experience due to bad weather on October 8, urged the government to explore the possibility of introducing a shorter ferry route between Marcaim and Agasaim.
Locals like Sandesh Naik from Marcaim, suggest constructing a ramp at Agasaim, directly opposite Marcaim, which would significantly shorten the ferry distance and offer a safer alternative, especially during adverse weather conditions.
The current Marcaim-Cortalim ferry route, spanning over one kilometre, typically takes more than half an hour to traverse. Passengers recounted a frightening experience on October 8, when the ferry, carrying around 60 people, 40 bikes, one car, and four crew members, drifted off course due to a sudden storm. The wind and heavy rainfall also led to poor visibility.
"As soon as the ferry left Cortalim at around 6.10 pm, everything seemed normal. But midway through the journey, the weather changed drastically, with zero visibility and strong winds pushing the ferry off course," recalled one passenger. The ferry eventually got stuck in the mud of the riverbed due to low tide, preventing further movement until the tide rose again.
Despite the panic, passengers remained calm, aided by the support of the four-member crew, including ferry captain Gajanan Naik, who explained, "We were fully equipped with safety gear, but during the low tide, there was no way to navigate the ferry back to its course until the high tide came in and dislodged the vessel." The boat was stuck for nearly three hours before being freed and finally reached Marcaim around 10 pm.
Passengers described the incident as a "miraculous escape," with many acknowledging that such incidents, while rare, highlight the need for safer, shorter routes during the monsoon season.
Shailendra Panjikar, Sarpanch of Marcaim, also emphasised the importance of considering safety during the rainy season. "This is the longest ferry route in the area, and given the risks posed by the weather, constructing a ramp on the Agasaim side could provide a much safer and shorter alternative."