Kolad–Verna
Ro-Ro car transport service to begin August 23; bookings open now
Konkan
Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL), the pioneer of India’s Roll-on Roll-off
(Ro-Ro) freight services, is set to revolutionize long-distance travel for car
owners with the launch of its new Ro-Ro service for private vehicles. Starting
August 23, car owners can now transport their vehicles on specially designed
railway rakes from Kolad in Maharashtra to Verna in Goa—and travel along with
them.
This
innovative service will run on alternate days from both destinations until
September 11. The train departs at 5 PM and reaches the destination by 5 AM the
following day. Passengers must report by 2 PM at the departure station.
KRCL’s new rake
is engineered to carry up to 40 cars—two per wagon across 20 wagons—ensuring
safe and secure transport. The freight charge is set at ₹7,875 per vehicle,
inclusive of GST. Customers are required to pay a ₹4,000 registration fee at
the time of booking, with the remaining balance due on the day of departure.
Each car can be accompanied by up to three passengers,
who will be accommodated in an attached coach. Travellers can choose from two
options: 3AC at ₹935 or Second Seating at just ₹190.
Bookings for
this service are open from July 21 to August 13 through both online and offline
channels. In the event that fewer than 16 cars are booked for a scheduled
service, KRCL will cancel that trip and refund the full registration amount.
“KRCL has decided to start this Ro-Ro to mitigate road
congestion, fuel guzzling and vehicle emissions on the Konkan corridor. By
extending this model to automobiles, KRCL seeks to offer a safer and more
economic mode of transport for long-distance commuters,” said a KRCL official.
This marks a
significant step forward for sustainable transportation and long-distance
convenience, building on KRCL’s legacy since it first introduced Ro-Ro services
for freight trucks back in 1999. Whether it’s to avoid the stress of a long
drive or reduce your carbon footprint, KRCL’s Ro-Ro car service is a smart,
forward-thinking alternative for your next trip between Maharashtra and Goa.