At Haddo Port, the main gate being closed by the Port Management Board (PMB) has caused big problems for local boat operators. This closure has gone on for many days and has made it hard for small boat drivers who fish for games on the new jetty. It’s been tough for them, causing a lot of trouble and making it hard to earn money.
The small boat drivers, who rely on accessing the port through its main gate, are now forced to undertake arduous journeys to reach their boats. Laden with necessary supplies such as diesel, petrol, and fishing equipment, these operators have resorted to carrying heavy loads on their shoulders, hampering their ability to conduct their business efficiently. Additionally, tourists arriving for game fishing expeditions are also compelled to traverse on foot, further exacerbating the situation.
Expressing their dismay, the boat operators lamented the adverse impact of the gate closure on their livelihoods. They implored PMB to reconsider their decision and reopen the gates to alleviate their plight.
In a candid interview with one of the affected operators, the extent of the challenges faced by the community was laid bare. “We’ve been engaged in this work since the early 2000s, and never before have we encountered such hardships,” he stated. “The closure of the gate has disrupted our entire operations, forcing us to resort to cumbersome alternatives just to sustain our businesses.”
Highlighting the ripple effects of the closure, the operators emphasized the logistical nightmare they now confront. From transportation issues to difficulties in refueling their vessels, every aspect of their operations has been thrown into disarray. The closure not only impedes their ability to conduct business but also tarnishes the region’s reputation as a premier destination for sports fishing.
Despite numerous appeals to PMB to reconsider their stance, the operators have yet to receive a satisfactory explanation for the gate closure. Speculations abound regarding the reasons behind the decision, with some attributing it to concerns over unruly behavior within the premises.
However, amidst the turmoil, a glimmer of hope emerged as PMB announced a temporary solution to the issue. The board pledged to open the gates for a limited period each evening, offering some respite to the beleaguered boat operators.
Nevertheless, the temporary reprieve falls short of addressing the underlying grievances of the community. With the tourism sector poised for growth post-COVID, the closure threatens to stifle the region’s economic prospects and deter potential visitors.
As tensions simmer at Haddo Port, the fate of the local boat operators hangs in the balance. Their fervent plea remains unchanged: “Open the gates and restore normalcy to our lives.” Until then, the uncertainty looms large, casting a shadow over the once-thriving hub of maritime activity.
