Mumbai: Authorities have woken up to the fact that rules mandating wearing of life jackets were not being enforced by ferry operators. Devidas Jadhav, an assistant boat inspector deputed at the Gateway, told PTI that they have now made use of life jackets mandatory for those taking a ferry to Mandwa, Elephanta or for a ride off the harbour.
A passenger, Sangeeta Dalvi, travelling to Mandwa for work, said use of life jackets can save people in an emergency. However, boat owner Sameer Bamane said passengers often express reluctance to wear life jackets due to heat and humidity.
On Thursday, visitors queued up as usual to board ferries. Most were out-of-towners, seemingly unfazed by news of the tragedy. Shura Banu, who came with husband Quasim from Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh said, “We have not heard of the boat capsizing and are looking forward to a ferry ride.”
Rudrasen Dasgupta from Nadia near Kolkata said his group saw videos of the boat capsizing but were keen on taking a ride. “We are returning on Saturday and may not visit Mumbai again,” he said.
Former corporator Makarand Narwekar said crowd management is an issue at the Gateway, particularly on weekends when ferries are overcrowded. “As a regular traveler from the Gateway of India jetty, it concerns me that passenger boats are overcrowded on weekends and holidays. There is no regulation on the capacity or number of passengers. Safety equipment is compromised. Authorities must take action,” said Narwekar, adding efforts are needed to improve the area for better tourist movement.
(With inputs from PTI)
