It is learnt that Cutbona-based boat owners have expressed their strong reservations to the warning issued by the government that a compensation amounting to Rs 25 lakh will be sought from the boat owner in the event of further deaths of migrant crew. The boat owners have made an appeal to the government to reconsider the decision, and rightly so. If made to pay such a hefty compensation of Rs 25 lakh for death of a labourer henceforth, most fishermen will be left with no option than to wind up their business. Imagine the plight of the boat owner if there is death of two or more labourers working for him. It is alleged that the outbreak of cholera-induced diarrhoea originated at Karwar jetty and trawler owners have claimed that the disease has now spread to Vasco and Malim jetties. According to the allegation the outbreak was caused by crew from fishing vessels that had anchored in Goan waters due to adverse sea conditions. Hence having to pay compensation of Rs 25 lakh for the death of migrant crew occurring henceforth seems inappropriate.
