Mumbai: Upgraded Gorai jetty opens, promising safer ferry access

The Gorai jetty after the work was completed. PICS/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Residents of Gorai finally feel safer while travelling from the Ro-Ro ferries, as the jetty leading to the ferry service has finally been worked on and is open for public use. Previously, the jetty was narrow and difficult to walk on. It has now been levelled and widened, with the final curing work completed this week.

"The jetty looks way more accessible. Now that it is wider, more people can use it, and there can be a proper system for people to get on and get off the ferry," said Rossi D'Souza, an activist and member of Gorai Gaothan Panchayat.

The narrow, unsafe jetty before the work

Prior to the work, water would frequently come onto the platform during high tides. "Now that it has been raised and levelled, there will be no water on the platform during high tides. At times, we would see the ferries almost come onto the jetty while docking during high tide. We hope that won't be an issue anymore," added D'Souza.

The other side of the jetty also has a thick mangrove cover, which acts as a natural barrier and prevents flooding. mid-day contacted the Maharashtra Maritime Board for comment but did not receive a reply till going to press.

What is a jetty?

A jetty is a structure that extends from the shore into a water body. They are made of stone, concrete, wood, or metal, and can be found at ports, harbours, rivers, or beaches. They are especially common in fishing and ferry areas, typically built to:

>> Protect a shoreline or harbour from the effects of waves and currents
>> Provide docking space for boats and ships
>> Facilitate loading and unloading of passengers or goods