Team Herald
MARGAO: The recent outbreak of cholera and dengue among migrant workers in the fishing community at Cutbona jetty has sparked serious health concerns among local residents of the neighbouring Mobor area in Cavelossim village. The outbreak, which has already resulted in five fatalities, has brought attention to the unsanitary conditions prevailing in the area.
Residents living near the affected jetty on River Sal, where the labourers were infected, have expressed fear for their health. The area, home to eight to ten houses just metres away from the river, was inspected by government officials on Friday following the outbreak.
Local resident Rosario Fernandes highlighted the risks posed by the current situation. "The authorities should take action and stop the fishing activities in the area immediately," he urged, citing concerns about open defecation and intoxicated behaviour among the migrant workers.
Locals report that many labourers from different parts of the country lack proper sanitation facilities, leading to open defecation and urination.
"In the past, we've experienced outbreaks of chikungunya and dengue, which we believe originated from the migrant labourers," one resident stated, underscoring the recurring nature of the problem.
Dixon Vaz, Sarpanch of Cavelossim, acknowledged the severity of the situation. "This site inspection brought many unhygienic conditions to light, where basic water and sanitation were not provided to the labourers," he said. "We are very serious about the health and safety of our villagers and will do everything to ensure such outbreaks do not occur again."
The Cavelossim panchayat has already issued show-cause notices to two fishing units based in their village over the unhygienic conditions they discovered during another inspection carried out by the panchayat earlier this month.
It may be recalled that various government departments are now actively monitoring the steps being taken at Cutbona to address the sanitary conditions and prevent the further spread of diseases.