The Ro-Ro ferry service between Fort Kochi and Vypeen is experiencing significant strain due to a surge in traffic, exacerbated by the temporary closure of key bridges for maintenance. While the service has seen increased patronage, the operational challenges posed by strong undercurrents and environmental factors are raising concerns among both passengers and operators.
With the Kundannoor and Alexander Parambithara bridges currently closed, many motorists have turned to the Ro-Ro vessels as a viable alternative. However, the experience is far from seamless. Passengers frequently encounter delays caused by low tide, which disrupts services and extends travel times. The operational journey that used to take approximately ten minutes has now stretched to around fifteen minutes. A source familiar with the operations noted, “A car that once boarded the vessel in a minute now takes a minute and a half.” Safety is another pressing concern. The Kerala Shipping Inland Navigation Corporation (KSINC), which oversees the Ro-Ro services, has recently restricted the boarding of heavy vehicles during evening hours to mitigate risks associated with low tides. Officials have also warned against the boarding of cars with low clearance, highlighting a recent incident where a scooter fell into the water due to the vessel drifting in strong currents. Fortunately, the rider was rescued, but the event has sparked fears about the safety of the service. The inconsistency of the water levels during low tide makes the ramp between the vessel and the dock increasingly precarious. An official explained, “When the water recedes, the ramp becomes uneven, increasing the risk of vehicles falling into the water. Heavy vehicles face particularly acute dangers in these conditions.”
Moreover, the accumulation of waste in the water body has compounded the operational challenges. On one occasion, garbage trapped in the vessel’s propeller caused a halt in services, further delaying passengers. A source recounted, “This incident occurred around 6 PM and caused a 30-minute disruption, which could have been avoided with better waste management.” Commuters express frustration over increased delays and safety concerns with the Ro-Ro service. Many fear for their vehicles and personal safety, especially after recent incidents. Residents are also worried about environmental impacts due to pollution. There’s a strong call for improvements to ensure reliable and safe transportation for the community. This scenario underscores the broader implications for sustainability. The Ro-Ro service not only offers a crucial transport link but also raises questions about environmental stewardship in the region. The increasing number of vehicles using the service highlights a pressing need for infrastructure improvements, as well as a commitment to maintaining cleanliness in the water bodies to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Local residents have voiced their frustrations. Many motorists express concern over the perceived neglect of the ferry service and its vessels, citing frequent engine failures as indicative of poor maintenance. “The engines often fail, leading to delays that disrupt our daily commutes,” lamented one regular user of the service. The emotional toll of these challenges is palpable, as daily commuters grapple with unreliable transport that impacts their lives and livelihoods. As the Ro-Ro service continues to adapt to increasing traffic and environmental challenges, the need for comprehensive solutions is more pressing than ever. Whether through improved infrastructure, stringent waste management practices, or regular maintenance of vessels, stakeholders must collaborate to ensure the sustainability and safety of this essential transport link for the people of Fort Kochi and Vypeen.
