A portion of the extended Kharewaddo fishing jetty partially collapsed following heavy rainfall and a rise in the water level, triggering concern among the fishing community.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident.
The collapse has renewed fears among fishermen, who said the existing jetty has become unsafe and is incapable of accommodating the nearly 250 fishing boats operating from Kharewaddo.
With limited berthing space available, several boats are forced to anchor outside the jetty, leaving them exposed to rough sea conditions and increasing the risk of damage, particularly during the monsoon season.
Fishermen said they have repeatedly urged authorities over the years to expand and strengthen the jetty, but despite several representations, the issue has remained unresolved.
Goa Fishing Boat Owners Association President Jose Philip D’Souza said the latest collapse has once again exposed the poor condition of the existing infrastructure and the need for immediate intervention.
"The Kharewaddo fishing jetty has been inadequate for many years. Around 250 fishing boats operate from this area, but the available space is far too small to accommodate them safely. Every monsoon, several boats are forced to remain outside the jetty, where they are vulnerable to rough seas and damage. We have been requesting the government for years to construct a bigger and stronger jetty, but no concrete decision has been taken. The recent collapse should serve as a wake-up call for authorities," D’Souza said.
He further urged the government to immediately repair the damaged portion of the jetty while simultaneously sanctioning a comprehensive expansion project.
"The fishing community depends entirely on this jetty for its livelihood. We need a modern, well-designed and durable facility that can safely accommodate all fishing vessels and withstand adverse weather conditions. Delaying the project any further could result in greater losses and pose a serious risk to fishermen and their boats," he added.
The fishing community has appealed to the government to treat the matter on priority and ensure that both immediate repairs and long-term infrastructure development are undertaken before the situation worsens.
