JETTY REVIVAL PUSH: Fisheries Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar and Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo at the foundation stone laying ceremony for the repair and renovation of the Chapora jetty on Tuesday.
After years of neglect, the long-pending repair and renovation of the Chapora jetty has finally received the government’s nod, with the Fisheries Department set to undertake the work at an estimated cost of Rs 4 crore – a move that has brought renewed hope to the local fishing community and boat owners in the area.
The crucial project aims to enhance facilities for fishermen and restore Chapora’s status as a major fishing hub in Siolim.
The revamp will include repair of the existing jetty and the adjoining auction hall, which have long been in a dilapidated state.
Speaking after laying the foundation stone for the project on Tuesday, Fisheries Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar said the government is committed to improving infrastructure for the fishing sector.
“The repair work of the jetty will boost fishing activity in the area. We will also take up dredging of the river within the next three to four months to resolve the long-standing sand bar issue,” Halarnkar said.
The minister informed that an estimate of Rs 10 crore has already been prepared by the Fisheries Department for the dredging work.
Local MLA Delilah Lobo, who played a key role in pursuing the project, said she had consistently raised the issue both with the Fisheries Minister and in the State Assembly.
“The sand bar dredging issue is with the Captain of Ports and the Fisheries Department. I have been following it up and expect the work to be taken up soon,” she said.
Once bustling with over 100 boats, the Chapora jetty today sees only a handful operating from its crumbling docks.
The absence of basic amenities such as toilets and storage facilities has further compounded the woes of fishermen.
Chairman of the Chapora Boat Owners’ Cooperative Society, Balbhim Malvankar urged the government to expedite the dredging work.
“The sand bar problem has severely affected our livelihood. We hope the authorities act fast so that fishermen can once again earn a decent living,” he said.
Among those present at the foundation-laying ceremony were Anjuna Sarpanch Surendra Govekar, panchayat members, ZP member, Fisheries Director Shamila Monteiro and several local officials.
