Team Herald
MARGAO: The Cavelossim Village Panchayat has called for immediate intervention after spotting a vessel tilting dangerously in the Mobor-Betul channel, warning that it could sink and pose a serious risk to the marine ecosystem and coastal activity.
In a letter dated May 26, addressed to the South Goa Collector, Deputy Collector, and Captain of Ports, the panchayat stated that the vessel appears to be connected to an ONGC research-related activity and is now listing in a manner that demands urgent attention.
Sarpanch Dixon Vaz, speaking to the media, said the vessel had been seen off the Mobor-Betul area and appeared to sink.
“It is blocking the navigational channel,” he said, adding that the panchayat has urged authorities to send a team of experts to the site.
In its letter, the panchayat warned that the vessel’s condition posed a threat not only to the marine ecosystem but also to tourism.
“The vessel is tilted and can sink. We request your good office to kindly send the team of experts and take necessary action to avoid any kind of disaster at sea,” the panchayat stated in the letter.
The fear of a maritime incident has grown stronger in light of worsening weather conditions. “In Kochi, a boat has already capsized due to bad weather,” Vaz noted, expressing concern that heavy rains in Goa could lead to a similar situation if the listing vessel is not dealt with in time.
The situation is especially critical given that this is the final week of the fishing season, which officially ends on May 31. Many boats are still venturing out or returning to shore, making the Mobor-Betul channel a key passage. The presence of the stranded vessel in this stretch raises serious safety concerns.