THURSDAY, MAY 02, 2024
Team Herald
PORVORIM: Environment Minister Aleixo Sequeira revealed on Saturday during the Legislative Assembly session that a survey is currently in progress to identify fishermen houses in Goa. He assured that measures will be taken to ensure that only genuine traditional dwellers are included in the protective list, excluding individuals who do not qualify as traditional coastal community members according to the comprehensive plan.
Sequeira assured that the survey findings will be made available to the public.
Moreover, he expressed the government’s sympathy towards traditional coastal communities and its efforts to develop a comprehensive plan in consultation with stakeholders. Sequeira pointed out that Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) 2011 permits the regularisation of fishermen and traditional dwellers, including toddy tappers, provided they meet the necessary criteria.
Addressing a calling attention notice tabled by Calangute MLA Michael Lobo, who raised concerns about the anxiety among traditional dwellers and fishermen due to inspection notices and demolition orders from the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA), Sequeira assured that the government is attentive to the livelihoods of these communities.
Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai stressed the importance of addressing the issue comprehensively without inadvertently promoting new businesses at the expense of traditional occupations.
Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo emphasised the need for a physical survey instead of relying solely on drones, ensuring clear guidelines on acceptable documents. “The traditional fishermen should be given sympathetic hearing,” said Lobo.
Benaulim MLA Venzy Veigas advocated for a slowdown in issuing notices, suggesting that pending notices be put on hold until permanent amendments are made to CRZ laws.
Mandrem MLA Jit Arolkar proposed the creation of a fishermen zone and identification of existing zones to better address the concerns of coastal communities.
