MLA Viresh Borkar has made an urgent appeal before the local authorities over the appalling condition of Malim Jetty, which is the mainstay for fishermen and related business interests in the area. Some of the critical issues, he claims, are inadequate infrastructure, insufficient lighting, deficiencies in the water supply, and sanitation-related problems that are causing the deterioration in livelihoods and day-to-day activities of those dependent upon the jetty. He has also drawn attention to needs with respect to the auction shed and overall facilities at Malim Jetty.
Infrastructure Deterioration
For the greater part of its history, Malim Jetty has been the backbone of fishing communities and local economic activities. Unfortunately, the structure itself is in very bad condition. He further pointed out that the weakening of the structure of the jetty is not only detrimental to daily business but has also become a safety issue for its users. “The very bedrock of our existence is crumbling, and if we do not act fast enough, we risk losing both our economic security and our safety,” he said during a news conference recently.
No Light at the End of Tunnel
Another major problem, he said, was the lack of adequate lighting at the jetty. Inadequate lighting affects the fishermen, who start much before dawn; it also adds to accidents. “We cannot compromise on safety. Proper lighting is essential for the fishermen and market vendors depending on the jetty. The absence of light makes it extremely hazardous, especially during the night,” he stressed.
Water Supply Issues
The fishing community has equally faced water supply challenges. Unavailability of a stable and safe water supply has proved to be a real inconvenience to the stakeholders, especially fish traders. It is always imperative to have clean water for purposes of sanitation and also for handling the catch product. Borkar insisted, “Access to fresh water is a basic need that cannot be sidelined. “We should be giving our fishermen every resource they need to operate effectively and hygienically.”
Sanitation and Hygiene Concerns
He further pointed out the alarming lack of sanitation facilities at the jetty. Inadequate hygiene infrastructure not only impacts the workers’ health but can also have detrimental effects on local fish quality. “Sanitation is not about convenience; it’s about health. We need proper toilet facilities, waste disposal systems, and cleanliness to protect our community’s well-being,” Borkar elaborated.
Need for Improvement in Auction Shed Facilities
Added to these pressing issues, he said, was the appeal for better facilities at the auction shed of Malim Jetty, an important sale center for fish. Fish is one of the main items sold by many families involved in fishing activities in this region. He said that with better facilities, this would provide for an effective market, thus leading to better prices and more earnings for fishermen. “The renovation of the auction shed will not only enhance our trading operations but it will also build trust among the buyers regarding the freshness and quality of our catch,” he said.
Conclusion
MLA Viresh Borkar’s proactive stand on the issues pertaining to the stakeholder of Malim Jetty evidences beyond doubt that action in this regard has become more than overdue to bring this vital infrastructure back to life. Much could be done by the local government for this fishing community to improve the quality of life and ensure the sustainability of this industry if the deteriorating facilities could be attended to with provision for adequate lighting, supplying of water, and better sanitation. Hopefully, the concerns of the community will be dealt with by the relevant authorities with a lot of promptitude and efficiency as Borkar argued for these things further. The future of Malim Jetty—and the people it supports—depends on it.