Team Herald
MARGAO: In the wake of the inauguration of the new 226-metre Cutbona jetty, stakeholders are urging the government to prioritise the long-awaited training wall at the mouth of the River Sal.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, during the jetty's opening ceremony, condemned local opposition to the project, asserting that it adversely affects the livelihoods of local boat owners. He called on Velim MLA Cruz Silva to identify the individual responsible for a case filed with the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which has delayed the training wall's construction. "Those affected should confront the person behind this case, as their actions are harmful to our local economy," Sawant remarked.
Sawant reaffirmed the government's commitment to both the Cutbona jetty and the training wall, although the latter remains stalled due to ongoing legal disputes. Sawant expressed concern over potential cost overruns resulting from these delays.
Local boat owners and fishermen from Betul have long advocated for the training wall to alleviate navigational challenges. Despite repeated appeals from the Velim MLA in Assembly sessions, the issue remains unresolved, with boat owners persistently petitioning the relevant government departments.