Velim fishermen say fishing enthusiasts create nuisance on riverbanks

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Team Herald

MARGAO: Traditional fishermen from Velim have opposed excessive fishing activities and nuisance caused to them by fishing enthusiasts, near the mouth of the Sal River in Betul. According to the fishermen, these enthusiasts interfere with their livelihood, which relies heavily on fishing in the river for fish and shellfish.

The fishermen claim that large groups of outsiders engaging in fishing along the riverbank are disrupting their routine activities.

“Fishing is our primary source of income, and we need unhindered access to the river,” one of the locals said.

The situation has been worsened by the unruly behaviour of these visitors as well. According to the fishermen, some of these visitors often indulge in alcohol consumption, litter the area with bottles, and bring in groups that often stay late into the night. “They leave behind a mess, including liquor bottles, and their presence is a constant disturbance,” the villagers complained.

Taking action, the fishermen have informed the Cuncolim police about their grievance. The traditional fishermen are also requesting a regular police presence in the evenings to prevent these individuals from staying beyond permitted hours and causing further nuisance.

The fishermen have called for swift intervention to protect their livelihood and the sanctity of their community spaces.

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