By | Nisar Shaikh
Ratnagiri: The much-anticipated Mumbai–Konkan Ro-Ro ferry service is finally set to launch on September 1, reducing the travel time between Mumbai and coastal towns like Jaigad and Vijaydurg to just a few hours.
The state government had been pushing to start this service ahead of the Ganeshotsav festival. However, delays in obtaining the necessary clearances postponed the launch. Now, with all 147 mandatory permissions from the Central Shipping Ministry and other agencies in place, the service is ready to begin.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had envisioned this project to offer a faster alternative to the congested Mumbai–Goa highway. The state’s Ports Development Department spearheaded efforts to make this sea route operational at the earliest.
The Ro-Ro vessel, named M2M, is among South Asia’s fastest passenger ferries with a speed of 25 knots. It offers seating for 552 passengers in the economy section, 44 in premium economy, 48 in business class, and 12 in first class. The vessel can also carry 50 four-wheelers and 30 two-wheelers.
As per the schedule, the ferry will depart Mumbai at 6:30 a.m., reach Jaigad by 11:00 a.m., and proceed to Vijaydurg, arriving at 1:30 p.m. The return journey from Vijaydurg will start at 2:30 p.m., bringing passengers back to Mumbai by 9:00 p.m.
Ports Development Minister Nitesh Rane announced that bus facilities will be provided from the jetty to nearby towns, with future plans to add more stops like Shrivardhan and Mandwa as new jetties are developed.
The Ro-Ro service promises faster, safer, and more convenient travel for Konkan residents and tourists alike, marking a new era in Maharashtra’s coastal transportation.
