5 persons died last year and over 250 cholera cases were reported at the jetty
Margao: With the new fishing season on the horizon, the fisheries department is treading with caution to avoid a repeat of last year at the Cutbona jetty, when five persons died and over 250 cases of cholera were reported.
The 61-day fishing ban is set to be lifted at midnight on July 31, while the workers are expected to arrive by July 25.
Sources within the fisheries department said that they are taking care to “ensure that no mosquito breeding takes place on the jetty, in close coordination with the health department.”
The official said that weekly spraying of chemicals is being carried out not only on the jetty but also on anchored trawlers, tarpaulin covers, and even tyres attached to the trawlers.
“The health department has advised against fogging as mosquitoes have developed immunity to it,” he said, adding that precautions will be taken to maintain hygiene on the jetty.
Arrangements are also in place to ensure timely screening of workers, he said. “The workers, many of whom are carriers of viruses, may not show symptoms themselves but can infect others through mosquitoes. Hence, we are taking steps to prevent mosquito breeding,” the official said.
Multiple screening counters will be set up near the entry point of the jetty and the union office to ensure a smooth process.
Responding to a query, the official said, “The situation is different from last year as old abandoned nets, dinkies, and other waste have all been removed. The dinkies currently on the jetty will be cleared once trawlers venture into the sea for the new season. However, we cannot take anything for granted and we have to be on our toes.”
