Mumbai monsoon: Gorai residents raise safety concerns over jetty expansion

Stagnant water at Gorai Jetty

As the monsoon has set in, Gorai residents have once again raised concerns over safety at the Gorai Jetty. Work to expand the jetty for more passengers and Ro-Ro ferry services is underway. While locals welcome the expansion, they say the safety measures remain inadequate.

Late last year, the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) deployed personnel to prevent overcrowding and manage crowds. When mid-day reported on safety concerns in March, the personnel had been absent for a few weeks. Locals now say they have returned, but are stationed only at the boarding point.

"I travel every morning and evening and now see the personnel every day. They are doing a decent job managing crowds and maintaining order on the jetty and ferries," said a Gorai resident, requesting anonymity. He added, "Most locals follow the rules, but some tourists don't. It's only one or two people at times, but they ignore safety rules while on board."

Missing barriers

"Earlier, metal barricades blocked access to the construction area, but they have been missing for the past few weeks. Workers have also tied ropes to machinery, and these are lying on the ground," said Rossi D'Souza, a member of the Gorai Gaothan Panchayat.

Ropes tied on the jetty. Pics/By Special Arrangement

He said the ropes, used to secure machinery and boats during changing tides and heavy rain, have become a tripping hazard. "Many people rush to catch the ferry, and the ropes are dangerous when they walk fast or run. There have been incidents of people tripping and getting hurt. We need to take precautions before someone is seriously injured," D'Souza added.

MMB response

MMB Executive Engineer Ajit Mohite told mid-day, "We will conduct a site inspection based on the concerns raised by locals and instruct the contractor to follow safety guidelines strictly. Project details will also be displayed at the site. We are committed to maintaining safety."

Slip hazard

Karan Pandurangi, a Gorai resident who commutes daily, said, "The personnel are only at the boarding point. The entrance, where construction is underway, is the danger zone. During the monsoon, the jetty becomes very slippery, and the construction makes it worse. We want the jetty to be cleaned properly as it is dangerous for children and the elderly."