Goa fishermen: trawlers violating fishing ban

Mechanised vessels are not allowed to fish within 5km from the shore as per Goa Marine Fisheries Regulations Act, 1981. "Trawlers are fishing barely 20-50m from Cacra village for several days. They are not allowed to fish near the coast," Sanjay Pereira, president of Shantadurga fishermen's association said.

Alleging that they have been violating the ban on fishing within the 5-km zone for a couple of years, he said that they venture near the shore and often tear their traditional fishing net (mag).

The fishermen have stated that illegal fishing is threatening their livelihood, as they have no other place to ply their occupation. "Some of us have taken loans on purchase of our nets and gear," he said. The labourers on board the mechanised boats do not even possess their cards, Pereira said.

The fishermen's association has complained to the fisheries department regarding the encroachment of mechanised boats in their space.

SC Verekar, fisheries director, confirmed that the complaint had been received. "We have issued notices to all fisheries societies, instructing them not to violate the ban," he said.

"A patrol vessel had also been sent to the area, but the mechanised boats could not be traced," Verekar added. The fisheries department's patrol vessel is not functioning due to a breakdown and another had been requisitioned for the job.

He further stated that the societies have been informed that the vessel registration numbers would be noted and penal action initiated against the offenders. "The department will stop the facilities to the vessel owners," Verekar said.

The government has subsidised fishing activity and both sections of fishermen receive such assistance on petrol and diesel.

Goenchea Ramponkarancho Ekvott has complained to the government repeatedly in the past about violation of the ban by mechanised boats and also demanded double subsidy for traditional fishermen due to losses caused by illegal activities.

[Source: The Times of India]