Authorities must ensure safety at Gorai jetty

Stagnant water at Gorai Jetty

It is action caution as the monsoon has set in. Our report cited how Gorai residents are concerned about safety as work is on at the Jetty. Work to expand the jetty for more passengers and Ro-Ro ferry services is underway, which locals said is welcome. But, they are flagging inadequate safety measures.

Late last year, the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) deployed personnel to prevent overcrowding and manage crowds. They seemed to be missing a few months ago but have now been absent for a few weeks. Locals now say they have returned, but are stationed only at the boarding point. A Gorai resident who commutes daily, said in our report that personnel are only at the boarding point. The entrance, where construction is underway, is the danger zone. The jetty becomes slick in the monsoon, it needs to be cleaned properly.

The construction site must be barricaded making it off limits to people who may meander inside. We are famous for rule breaking, walking as if in a trance or simply forget what curiousity did to the cat. Barriers around the construction will make it a no-go zone and ensure a safer navigation space around the jetty.

Some ropes used to secure machinery and boats during changing tides and heavy rain, have become a tripping point. These need to be removed as rushing passengers may fall over them. All obstacles and danger areas need to be removed.

Signboards, good lighting for visibility, personnel, even an announcement system, cleaning surroundings and people who follow rules will make the jetty a safer space. Safety, regard for life and limb tops the priority ladder.