Team Herald
MAPUSA: Porvorim MLA Rohan Khaunte and Fisheries Minister Felipe Neri Rodrigues inspected the Malim jetty on Wednesday to solve the difficulties faced by the fishermen.
Addressing the media, Minister Rodrigues said that the various MLAs have raised the issue of Malim jetty being disorganised.
“At the same time there are proposals for the extension and renovation of the jetty. I had assured them on the floor of the House that I would visit the site and hence went there today. I have collected all the required data and am confident that all the issues related to the fishing community will be resolved with the cooperation of the MLAs and members of the society. One issue they claim is the displacement of the traditional people who have to be rehabilitated,” Rodrigues said.
“The extension work of this jetty is also in progress. At the same time we have confirmed that there is a need for dredging of the river to be carried out at that point,” he added.
Khaunte said that he had raised the issue about the Malim jetty in the legislative assembly after which the Fisheries Minister had assured to inspect the place and provide a solution to the problem faced by the people.
“I am very thankful that the Fisheries Minister has fulfilled his promise given on the floor of the house unlike many other ministers and has visited the jetty to carry out an inspection. We are hoping that he would soon find a solution to the problems faced by the people using the Malim jetty. There is lot of traffic congestion witnessed here. The minister concerned has called for a joint meeting with the local MLA, panchayat, societies and other stakeholders. There is a need to find a solution at the earliest. The panchayat and government needs to work together for a common cause,” he said.
“The solution needs to be drawn keeping in mind the interest of the villagers. We have shared our thoughts and grievances at the assembly. I am pretty sure, he (pointing to Rodrigues) will resolve the issue at the earliest,” Khaunte added.
St Andre MLA Francis Silveira and Aldona MLA Glenn Ticlo were also present for the inspection.
