VASCO: Traditional fishermen and the villagers of Arossim in general have raised concern over debris, of the partially cut pontoon, that has been dumped along the coast. They pointed out that the debris is causing nuisance and has become an eyesore for the people visiting the beach.
Arihant Ship Breakers have cut nearly 50 per cent of the grounded pontoon ‘Bhageerath’. It ran aground along the beach some two months back. Its cutting operation was undertaken after a hue and cry by the locals who had pointed out that if it was not taken away from the beach it would cause damage to the coast.
Although the pontoon has been cut 50 per cent, the debris including huge corroded metal chunks, that is dumped along the shore, poses a risk to the people and tourists who visit the beach.
Arossim shore has become a dumping yard for metal pieces after the grounded pontoon was cut into two parts by Arihant Ship Breakers. Due to constant movement of heavy machinery on the beach, the villagers claim that the beach is also facing a threat from it. The salvage operation had started around a week ago.
“We have cut the pontoon into two parts in a week’s time”, informed the site supervisor. However, he disclosed that they were facing problems in carrying out the salvage operation smoothly due to the rains.
Deputy captain of ports Premlal Sirsaikar, who is constantly monitoring the salvage operation at Arossim beach, informed that it would take another week to cut the second portion of the pontoon. He, however, ruled out any damage or threat to the coast.