Business Standard reported that the Gujarat Maritime Board has invited global bidders for setting up of its ambitious Ro-Ro ferry services in the Gulf of Cambay region of state.

In a global tender notice issued, GMB has invited Request for Qualification to select world class ferry and terminal operators which could provide integrated Ro-Pax vessel service and terminal operation on exclusive basis between Gogha in Bhavnagar and Dahej in Bharuch. The last date for submission of tender is November 22nd.

RO-PAX is used to describe Ro-Ro vessel built for freight vehicle transport along with passenger accommodation. Construction work of Ro-Pax terminals including berthing facilities at Dahej and Gogha sites are already in progress. The entire route is approximately 32 kilometer long.

The port policy of Gujarat has emphasized that the introduction of the Ro-Ro service and Hovercraft or catamaran service, joining different terminals on Saurashtra and Kutch coast with South Gujarat will be given a high priority. This will not only save the time and cost of transportation of man and material from one place to another, but will substantially reduce pressure on the existing road and rail network of the region.

The tender document said that "These facilities are also expected to promote tourism, linking places of historical, religious and tourist interests of Kutch and Saurashtra with South Gujarat. As the terminal construction cost plays an important part in an attractive and a viable Ro-Ro ferry operation to begin with, the Government of Gujarat has decided to first, construct the Ro-Ro ferry terminals at Gogha and Dahej and subsequently, to privatize the ferry operation."

Source - Business Standard

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