Daijiworld Media Network - Margao

Margao, Aug 23: The new fishing season at Cutbona fishing jetty in South Goa has begun on a troubling note, with one confirmed cholera case and 19 diarrhoea cases reported among migrant workers. Health authorities have traced the outbreak to poor sanitation practices, including open defecation.

In response, South Goa District Collector Egna Cletus held a high-level meeting on Friday with officials from the Health and Fisheries Departments, local administration, and the Balli Primary Health Centre to review the situation. Speaking to the media after the meeting, she confirmed that the cholera patient is receiving treatment at Goa Medical College and Hospital, Bambolim.

So far, around 2,275 migrant workers arriving for work on fishing vessels have been screened at the jetty. Health checks are now mandatory for all incoming workers, with boat owners instructed to ensure their crews comply.

Expressing concern over the ongoing sanitation issues, the Collector said awareness campaigns will be intensified to promote the use of newly constructed toilets and end open defecation. She emphasised the need for behavioural change and urged boat owners to educate their workers on hygiene practices.

Describing the workers as a floating population that arrives at the start of the fishing season and departs once it ends, the Collector said sustained awareness efforts are essential. She acknowledged that while infrastructure improvements—like new toilets and bathrooms—have been made, hygiene remains a serious concern.

Screening efforts have been instrumental in early detection, she added, noting that health cards are issued to workers post-screening. The administration, she assured, is doing everything possible to contain the spread and safeguard public health at the jetty.