Dona Paula jetty to be closed for repairs

PANJIM: In a major decision, the North Goa district administration has decided to block public access to the Dona Paula jetty, as it is set to undergo major repairs under the Smart City Mission. 

The decision was taken at a crucial meeting held with Captain of Ports Department, sub divisional magistrate and others on Wednesday. “I have decided to block the access path to the jetty. The order to CoP, traffic police and other agencies concerned will be issued tomorrow (Thursday),” North Collector Nila Mohanan told Herald. The closure will not affect the water sports activity.

The decision comes following a report from the Managing Director of Imagine Panjim Smart City Development Ltd (IPSCDL) on closing the jetty. Imagine Panjim, entrusted with the task, had in December 2017 suggested to the government to close the jetty in view of the deteriorating state of the structure. “The government has been very cooperative and agreed to our proposal to close the jetty as it could affect human lives. For us, public safety is top priority and of utmost concern. It is a multi agency work and we will be working in close coordination with all concerned government departments and agencies,” Imagine Panjim CEO and MD Swayan Chaudhary told Herald minutes after the decision was taken.

Assuring to build a world class jetty in the next 12 to 18 months, Chaudhary said the decision on complete overhaul of the structure or phase-wise work will be decided following a detailed study with experts in the field.