Team Herald
MARGAO: In response to the recent tragedy at Cutbona jetty, where five labourers died from diarrhoea, Environment Minister Aleixo Sequeira announced that parking fees for abandoned fishing boats have been raised to Rs one lakh per month, up from Rs 5,000. He added that these fines will be collected immediately, addressing previous delays by authorities in taking action at the jetty, including the removal of around 40 abandoned boats.
This decision was made during a meeting chaired by Sequeira on Thursday at the District Collectorate, following Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s visit to Cutbona jetty on Wednesday.
The meeting was attended by various officials and stakeholders, including Velim MLA Cruz Silva, the South Collector, Deputy Collector, Mamlatdar, health officials, boat owners, police representatives, members of the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB), and officials from the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC).
When responding to media queries, Sequeira rejected the claim that the Fisheries Department was at fault but acknowledged delays in addressing the issues. He also expressed sadness over the labourers’ deaths.
Asked if the government’s decision to relieve the Fisheries Director of her duties was related to the Cutbona outbreak, Sequeira denied it, stating the move was to reduce her workload, given her role as GSPCB Member Secretary. However, he added that the GSPCB had inspected the jetty and surrounding areas on Thursday.
Regarding the inauguration of the extended jetty, constructed a few years ago, Sequeira said he had asked the PWD to address foundation issues raised by boat owners, who complained that the new jetty is too weak to handle operations. He added that GSIDC, which built the extension, had been asked to submit the plans. MLA Silva noted he had repeatedly raised concerns about the jetty and toilets, including in the Assembly, but no action had been taken until now. He hoped the CM’s visit would expedite these issues, including the long-delayed construction of the training wall at the mouth of the River Sal, which poses navigational challenges for boat owners.
The MLA also mentioned that Velim locals were
concerned about the CM’s instructions to remove encroachments, insisting their establishments were not illegal. Sequeira said he had requested details on land ownership at Cutbona, including what the government acquired under the Fisheries Department and what belongs to the Comunidade and village panchayat.