MAPUSA
Fisheries Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar has said the government will take strict action against certain stakeholders at the Cutbona jetty who have failed to maintain the site and are allegedly engaging in irresponsible practices.
Halarnkar also confirmed that notices have been issued to some of these stakeholders. He stated that while the government prefers not to disrupt the operations of the fishing community by deploying inspectors or police, it expects stakeholders and societies managing the jetties to take responsibility for maintaining the infrastructure.
“We have taken over the maintenance of the Cutbona jetty following a High Court directive. However, there are some elements causing trouble by dumping nets on the jetty and abandoning old boats. We have issued them clear instructions and notices have been sent,” Halarnkar said.
The Cutbona jetty recently made headlines after a suspected outbreak had claimed the lives of five migrant crew members in the area.
The government has raised concerns about the misuse of the jetty, with improper disposal of waste and neglect in maintaining hygiene contributing to the issue.
Halarnkar explained that while the government builds infrastructure for the jetties and hands it over to the registered societies, it is the responsibility of the stakeholders to ensure proper upkeep.
“The infrastructure is provided to them, and they must use it responsibly. They cannot leave the site in disrepair,” he said.
One of the issues raised by the Minister was the refusal of crew members to use the toilet facilities provided at the jetty because of their distance from the site.
When asked why the government has not taken stricter action against those who fail to follow guidelines, Halarnkar said, “We do not want to interfere with their business. We prefer not to send inspectors or police for minor infractions. The stakeholders are responsible for maintaining the jetties, and we are open to any suggestions for improvement.”
Regarding the development of other jetties in the State, Halarnkar mentioned that the government has submitted proposals to the central government but is facing delays due to the requirement for environmental impact assessments (EIA).
“Since the jetties are located along the coast, obtaining the necessary clearances takes time,” he said.
