The relentless increase in diesel prices has placed ferry associations in Mangaluru under severe financial strain. The BMD Ferry Service, Thota Bengre Ferry Service operated by Mahajana Sabha Bengre, and the Boloor Mogaveera Ferry Service Committee have all raised alarm over rising operational and maintenance costs, threatening the viability of these essential water transport services.
Financial Struggles of Ferry Operators
Saleem Hasan, director of BMD Ferry Service, Kasaba Bengre, highlighted that soaring diesel prices have pushed their operations into losses. Previously, profits from the ferry service were allocated to social services, but mounting losses have made this unsustainable. The service consumes approximately 175 litres of diesel daily for the route between Kasaba Bengre and Bunder, alongside significant maintenance costs. The operation relies on three boats and a staff of 20. Regarding fare revision, Hasan noted that increasing fares by Rs 2 or Rs 3 creates issues with change, while a Rs 10 hike is also impractical.
Sanjay Bengre, president of Mahajana Sabha Bengre, which operates between South Wharf, Bunder, and Bengre, expressed that they are struggling to maintain operations due to the diesel price hike. The cost of spare parts and repairs has escalated, and paying staff salaries has become challenging. The service has three boats, with only two operational, and employs 19 staff members. Bengre emphasized that the service cannot be halted as it offers the shortest route for locals to reach the city. A decision on fare revision will be made after discussions with the committee and local residents. He also stressed the urgent need for dredging, as during low tide, ferries are forced to take longer routes, leading to higher diesel consumption.
Subash Kunder, president of the Boloor Mogaveera Ferry Service Committee, which operates between Sultan Battery and Tannirbhavi, stated that rising diesel prices are making operations unviable. Passenger numbers are higher only on weekends and have declined during the monsoon season. The service employs nine staff members. Fare hikes are difficult to implement at present, especially with a new bridge connecting both ends expected to be completed in the coming months. However, a decision is likely after a meeting with the sabha following August 15. Notably, damages caused by low tide were limited this year due to the strong flow from the Phalguni River after the coffer bund was opened.
Conclusion
The ferry services in Mangaluru are facing an existential crisis due to escalating diesel costs. Operators are exploring fare revisions and other measures to sustain operations while awaiting infrastructure improvements like dredging and the new bridge. The situation underscores the vulnerability of local transport systems to fuel price fluctuations.
