By Kavita Mistry 
Konkan Railway is preparing to experiment with car and SUV transport on train wagons, giving travelers a chance to avoid congested highways during the Ganapati festival season. Santosh Kumar Jha, CMD of Konkan Railway, confirmed the plan and said the concept, though in its early stages, is technically possible and will be explored soon.
Understanding the Ro-Ro Model
The Roll-on Roll-off (Ro-Ro) model, already in use for trucks, involves vehicles being driven onto wagons via a ramp. Each truck is checked for weight and height (up to 3.425 metres) before being allowed on board. The driver and cleaner travel in their truck cabins with regular tickets. A train is dispatched only when at least 40 trucks are ready.
For cars and SUVs, the same safety checks will be essential, but the wagons will need new modifications to match smaller vehicle dimensions. Additionally, vehicles will need to be driven to Kolad, the existing Ro-Ro terminal, and a minimum number of cars must be available before the service can run.
Monsoon Timetable Cut by 10 Days
In a separate move, Konkan Railway has reduced its monsoon timetable by 10 days, now effective from 15 June to 20 October. This decision was made due to better preparedness, including cleaned drains, stable cuttings, and completed geo-safety projects, which have significantly reduced risks from landslides and boulders.
Safety Measures and Station Upgrades
More than 600 trained personnel will patrol vulnerable areas, and LED signals and pre-warn rain systems are active at 9 stations. Flood alerts are also in place at key river bridges. Plans for new tunnels at Pernem and Old Goa are under review, and Madgaon and Udupi stations have been selected for upgrades under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, pending fund approval.
Conclusion
If implemented, Konkan Railway’s car ferry project could revolutionize festival travel by reducing road traffic and offering a convenient, safe, and efficient travel alternative. While still experimental, this plan shows the railway’s commitment to innovation and passenger convenience.