Team Herald
MAPUSA: Ports Minister Michael Lobo informed that he is going to speak to the local Mandrem MLA, local panchayat and Stakeholders regarding the floating jetty project at Chopdem. Lobo also said that if people don’t want the jetty at Chopdem then the location of floating jetty will be shifted elsewhere.
Recently, the Siolim, Chopdem and Morjim Villagers, fishing community and even the local representatives have raised their objection to the floating jetty project which the State government has been taking up under fund received from the Centre.
“We have completed two floating jetties, one at Captain of Ports, Panjim and another at Old Goa. These jetties are for local population and tourists who want to travel from one point to another. These are floating jetties and nothing is permanent,” said Lobo.
“The floating jetties will be brought and anchored at these places. This is waterways transport mode. It’s a plan of the government where the people have to also cooperate,” the Minister said.
Lobo said that he was not aware of the locals objecting this project. “This is a floating jetty which can be used by anyone, including the locals, public and fishermen. But the government is not forcing this project. I will speak to the Chief Minister, concerned MLA and local panchayat body and stakeholders and get it resolved. Two are already in place. The third was planned at Chopdem, fourth at Aldona and fifth at Miramar,” Lobo said.
Lobo further denied having any casino project in this area.
