Bhavnagar/Surat: A fake video claiming that the Ghogha Surat Ro Ro Ferry service could “turn into Titanic” has gone viral on social media, creating unnecessary panic among passengers. The viral clip was later found to be unrelated to the ferry operating between Ghogha (Bhavnagar) and Hazira (Surat). Acting swiftly, the Surat Cyber Crime Cell arrested two individuals for spreading false information and trying to defame the ferry service.
Fake Video Meant to Defame the Ferry Service
According to police officials, the accused took a video of a damaged foreign Ro Ro ferry and falsely presented it as a clip of the Ghogha Surat Ro Ro Ferry. They shared the video on social media with a misleading caption suggesting that “Bhavnagar-Surat Ro Ro Ferry will become another Titanic and claim many lives.” This misinformation created fear and confusion among the public, who have been relying on the ferry service for safe and convenient travel since 2018.
The service, managed by Indigo Seaways Pvt. Ltd., plays a crucial role in connecting South Gujarat with Saurashtra. Thousands of citizens benefit from this route as it reduces travel time and provides a safe sea journey between Ghogha and Hazira. The company lodged a formal complaint with the Surat Cyber Crime Cell after learning about the circulation of the misleading video.
Police Action and Arrests
Based on the complaint, the cyber crime team began technical investigations and tracked down the culprits behind the fake post. Within a short time, two individuals were arrested. They have been identified as Maheshbhai Bhavanbhai Parmar, a resident of Anidra village in Surendranagar district, and Sandeepbhai Becharbhai Dholiya, a resident of the Nanavarachha area in Surat.
Investigations revealed that Mahesh Parmar, who works in the DJ sound business, originally uploaded the video on social media. His friend Sandeep Dholiya, who works as a land broker, further helped spread the fake post. Both admitted that they created and circulated the video only for “fun” and to “go viral” on social media. However, the act has serious consequences as it spread fear among the public and damaged the reputation of a vital transport service.
Official Statement from the Company
Indigo Seaways Pvt. Ltd., which operates the Ghogha–Hazira Ro Ro Ferry, has clarified that the viral video has nothing to do with their vessel. The company assured passengers that the ferry is in excellent condition and continues to provide safe and reliable service. Officials expressed concern that such fake news not only misleads people but also discourages them from using a service that saves time, fuel, and road traffic.
Importance of Ghogha Surat Ro Ro Ferry
Since its launch in 2018, the Ghogha Surat Ro Ro Ferry has become a lifeline for travelers and businesses in Gujarat. By sea, the journey between Bhavnagar (Ghogha) and Surat (Hazira) is significantly shorter compared to road travel, which usually takes 10-12 hours. The ferry cuts this journey down to just about 3-4 hours, making it highly efficient for passengers and cargo movement.
Apart from saving time, the ferry reduces traffic congestion on highways and contributes to eco-friendly transport by lowering fuel consumption. Local traders, farmers, and industries heavily rely on this service to transport goods quickly and cost-effectively. For many families, it has become a regular mode of travel between Saurashtra and South Gujarat.
Also read: Ro Ro Ferry Surat to Bhavnagar Ticket Booking: Complete Guide, Timings, and Prices
Fake News and Its Impact
The incident once again highlights the dangers of fake news on social media. What started as a “joke” between two friends spread like wildfire, leading to unnecessary panic among the public. Many passengers expressed concern about safety, while others started questioning the reliability of the ferry service. Such baseless rumors not only harm public confidence but also create an unfair image of services that are otherwise safe and beneficial.
Police have emphasized that spreading fake news, even in the name of fun, is a punishable offense. Legal action has been initiated against both accused individuals under relevant sections of the law related to misinformation and public disturbance. Authorities have also appealed to citizens not to believe in unverified content circulated online and to rely only on official updates.
Also read: RoRo Ferry Hazira to Ghogha: Complete Guide on Schedule, Ticket Prices, and Travel Experience
Lessons for Social Media Users
This case serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with using social media. While platforms are powerful tools for communication, misuse can lead to serious legal trouble. The two friends thought they were making a harmless joke, but their act resulted in police action, public panic, and damage to a crucial transport service’s reputation.
Citizens are urged to avoid sharing unverified videos, photos, or messages, especially when they involve public services like transportation, healthcare, or safety. Even a single misleading post can create large-scale panic.
Also read: Ro Ro Ferry Mumbai to Konkan: Launch Date, Ticket Prices, Routes, and Complete Travel Guide
Conclusion
The arrest of two men for spreading a fake video about the Ghogha Surat Ro Ro Ferry shows that law enforcement agencies are keeping a strict watch on misinformation. The ferry service remains safe, reliable, and vital for Gujarat’s connectivity. While the culprits claimed they did it “just for fun,” the law treats such actions as serious crimes because they endanger public trust.
As Gujarat continues to benefit from the Ghogha–Hazira ferry route, officials and citizens alike stress the need to protect such services from baseless rumors. The case also acts as a warning for social media users: misinformation is not entertainment—it is a crime.
