Team Goemkarponn
VELIM: Velim MLA Cruz Silva has termed the collapse of the floating jetty at the mouth of the River Sal as a “wake-up call” for the Goa government, calling for an independent technical inquiry into the incident and immediate action on the long-pending demand for a training wall to protect fishermen.
In a statement, Silva said fishermen have been demanding the construction of a training wall for more than 35 years to safeguard them from strong sea currents during the fishing season, which begins in August. He alleged that despite repeated appeals, the government has failed to secure the required environmental clearances and execute the project.
Silva questioned how the floating jetty project was completed in a short span while the fishermen’s long-pending demand remained unfulfilled. He also sought clarification on whether all necessary environmental clearances had been obtained for the jetty project.
Referring to the reported cost of over ₹100 crore, the MLA said the collapse had raised serious concerns over the use of public funds. He alleged that despite the substantial investment, the project had failed to benefit the fishing community, which continues to lack the basic infrastructure it has sought for decades.
Silva demanded an independent technical inquiry to ascertain the cause of the collapse and fix responsibility if negligence or poor-quality work was involved.
He further urged the government to accord top priority to the construction of the training wall at the mouth of the River Sal, stating that the project is essential for the safety, livelihood and future of the fishing community.
