Sunken ferry remains unattended for 5 days : Congress slams BJP over administrative negligence

Goa Khabar : The Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) has launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led state government following the prolonged inaction over a sunken ferry at the Chorao ferry point. The vessel, submerged in the Mandovi River for the past five days, has reportedly been salvaged without any official tender or work order — raising serious questions about transparency, accountability, and administrative procedures.

GPCC President Amit Patkar, who visited the site on Thursday, termed the incident a “glaring and dangerous symbol” of the government’s failure to protect public safety.

“What is shocking and deeply disturbing is that even after five days, the River Navigation Department (RND) has not issued a single work order or contract to remove the sunken ferry,” Patkar said. “This isn’t mere negligence. It is yet another example of how the corrupt BJP government operates without due process or responsibility.”

Patkar criticized Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant and the BJP government for prioritizing publicity events over real governance. “While the state machinery is fully engaged in PR stunts, it is completely absent when it comes to addressing critical issues that affect the lives of Goans,” he added.

Congress Party Raises Key Questions:

Why did the RND delay action for five full days?

Who is accountable for this lapse in emergency response?

What measures are being taken to ensure safe ferry services across Goa?

The Congress has demanded immediate clarification from both the Chief Minister and the RND Minister, holding them responsible for endangering public lives and undermining basic systems of governance.

“This incident clearly reflects that under BJP rule, not just ferries but governance, accountability, and dignity in Goa are sinking,” Patkar alleged. “Goa deserves better, and Goans deserve answers. The Congress Party will not rest until those responsible are held accountable.”

The sunken ferry was finally pulled out of the river this morning, reportedly by private operators — without any formal documentation, inviting concerns over safety protocols and procedural legality.