PONDA: Usgao locals have expressed fear about fishing activities taking place at Nanus Ganjem-Usgao by using gelatin blast which poses risk to both houses and property.
Locals have demanded immediate action by authorities. The locals claimed that they hear loud noise of the blast at the river during day and night time which they suspect is triggered by gelatin blast for fishing. Most the local shevto or mullet fish is found in this river.
The Locals said since past two month some people are involved in fishing activities using canoes. They proceed upstream at Ganjem, Nanus, Usgao area and trigger the blast in the river to catch fish.
The locals informed that most of such activity takes place on Saturday and Sunday. Even during day time the such fishing activity is in progress.
The locals showed the cracks caused to outer walls of their houses with the impact of the gelatine blast. The locals said this illegal fishing not only poses risk to houses but also to Ganjem barrage which is located upstream and which supplies around 70 MLD water to Opa Treatment Plant.
The locals said that gelatin blast may damage the 900 mm dia underground water pipeline that supplies water to Opa plant from Ganjem barrage. Incase of any damage to this water line at this time, it may cause major water shortage to Ponda and Tiswadi.
The locals also demanded police patrolling in area to ensure the safety of houses and property.
