Ro-Ro Ferry Connection Essential for Rapid Development of Talaja
The residents of Talaja Taluka have a longstanding connection with Surat and South Gujarat, and there is a strong demand for a Ro-Ro ferry service. If Talaja gets the Ro-Ro ferry facility, it is expected to boost the area’s development. To ensure connectivity to each village in Talaja through ferry transport, the provision of an ST bus service between Ghogha and Talaja should also be considered. The Ro-Ro ferry service between Ghogha and Hazira, similar to the Dream Project of Gohilwad, benefits travelers, vehicle operators, private vehicle owners, loading vehicles, and rural passengers in Bhavnagar city and district. Especially during the monsoon season, traveling by Ro-Ro ferry is safer and more convenient compared to highway traffic. There is a growing demand for better Ro-Ro ferry connectivity for the general public from rural areas of the district to maintain a permanent connection with Surat and South Gujarat. To facilitate easier access to ferry services for many villages in Talaja, it is essential to provide a convenient ST bus service from Talaja ST Depot to Ghogha.
Economic Activities and Transportation Needs in Talaja
Villages in Talaja, including those involved in trade and business with Surat, rely heavily on various industries such as diamond, textile, artisans, sugar mills, and laborers. Thousands of people regularly commute to different units in South Gujarat, spending 12 to 15 hours traveling and incurring significant costs. The Ghogha-Hazira ferry service could be a blessing for them. However, efficient transportation to the Ghogha terminal is crucial before ferry services commence. An ST bus service should be provided to ensure easy access to the ferry terminal. It is necessary to conduct a survey of rural routes by Talaja Depot to offer ST connectivity. The district administration should actively instruct other relevant ST depots to restore these services, which would greatly benefit rural passengers by providing ample access to the Ro-Ro ferry service.
