A huge quantity of fish was harvested from the centuries-old Velsao Lake on Friday, marking a successful community-driven initiative aimed at preserving the village’s cultural and environmental heritage.
Speaking after the harvest, Roquezinho D’Souza, president of the Pale Tollem Xetkaranche Association, said that although he had won the auction for the lake harvest, his objective was never to earn business profits. Instead, he said the initiative was intended to encourage the younger generation to protect and conserve the historic lake for future generations.
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“Most of the fish I distributed among my well-wishers, while the remaining stock was sold,” D’Souza said.
Zonal Agriculture Officer Mahesh Kankonkar stated that the fish-rearing trial was conducted under the Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA). As part of the initiative, two fish varieties — Rahu and Common Carp — were released into the lake, producing encouraging results.
Youth representative Lyn Demello said the annual tradition should continue as it plays an important role in preserving the village’s heritage and community spirit.
The successful harvest has highlighted the potential of community participation in environmental conservation while also reviving interest in traditional practices linked to Goa’s historic water bodies.
