TEAM HERALD
CHORAO: The wooden watch tower at Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary at Chorao collapsed recently due to heavy rains and strong wind.
Built eight years ago, the wooden tower was located about 1 km from the Chorao ferry point to enable nature lovers monitor the birds and to see the scenic beauty of the Mandovi River.
According to locals, the material used to build the tower was of poor quality and it was in a dilapidated condition since the last one-and-half years. Officials had even removed the steps to prevent people from climbing atop the tower amid fears that the structure could collapse at any time.
Forest department staff claimed that the foundation of the watch tower had weakened as saline water would regularly enter near the foot of the tower.
One staff member said a new tower would be erected before the forthcoming tourist season.
