Team Herald
MARAGO: Concerns about the functionality of the newly constructed 222-metre jetty at Cutbona have raised doubts about its design and usefulness. Completed in 2019 at a significant cost, the jetty reportedly only accommodates four-wheel vehicles, despite the common use of six-wheel fish transport trucks at the site.This limitation has frustrated boat owners, who are now demanding clarity on whether the jetty can handle larger vehicles. Authorities are considering a load test to determine the jetty’s capacity, but it is unclear whether the responsibility lies with the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC), which built the jetty, or the Public Works Department (PWD). Complicating matters, the defect liability period for the jetty expired over a year ago.
Boat owners warn that the inability to park six-wheel trucks on the jetty will lead to congestion on surrounding roads, obstructing movement and causing inconvenience. “For whose benefit is the jetty if it can’t bear the load of six-wheel vehicles?” asked one boat owner, suggesting that at least half of the truck should fit on the structure.
The Chief Minister is expected to inaugurate the jetty by the end of the month, making it operational.
Further infrastructure issues at the jetty have also been raised, including corroded electrical panels and the lack of a water supply due to stolen brass nozzles. A trawler owner pointed out that the jetty lacks basic facilities like power and water, calling it “just a cement platform.”
Government scrutiny, under the supervision of Environment Minister Aleixo Sequeira, has increased following recent cholera and dengue outbreaks at the jetty. Sequeira, who has been holding regular meetings with departments and stakeholders, visited the jetty on Wednesday.
He interacted with boat owners and reviewed the situation, particularly after the Fisheries Department issued notices to clear abandoned vessels and dinghies by a non-extendable deadline. Failure to comply will result in confiscation by the government.