'All the mine owners in Goa, along with the Goa Mineral Ore Exporters Association, have chipped in for this project. We have already submitted our proposal to the government,' said Salgaocar, who is also an independent legislator from Sanvordem.

He added that over the years the state government had not applied its mind to the concept of ferry boats, which is still an important mode of commuting for people living in rural areas along the river, and on islands.

'We are confident of our design. The new ferry boat is sleeker, can accommodate more two wheelers and pedestrians than the conventional ferry boats and can travel at double the speed of the present boats in use,' Salgaocar said.

The new ferry would cost Rs.30 lakh (Rs.3 million), which is much cheaper than the ferries ordered by the state government for Rs.70 lakh per boat, he added.