MLA Adv. Carlos Ferreira has come down heavily on the Goa government for congratulating Drishti Marine lifeguards after the rescue of 42 passengers from a stranded cruise boat off Aguada Bay, instead of taking strict action against those responsible for the incident. Ferreira questioned how a cruise operator was permitted to venture into the sea on October 21 despite a yellow alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). “Even fishermen stayed ashore that day. How could a cruise set sail with 42 tourists, risking lives merely for profit?” he asked. The MLA said the rescue was a fortunate outcome but reflected a failure of governance. “Congratulations for what? These operators should be fined, and their licences suspended,” he asserted. Ferreira demanded immediate accountability, calling for penalties against those who violated safety norms and emphasised that public safety must always take precedence over commercial interests.
MLA Carlos Ferreira slams govt for praising lifeguards instead of punishing cruise operators
