the Minister for Fisheries Avertano Furtado on Thursday announced to conduct night patrolling along Goan waters to ensure that use of such lights are banned in the State jurisdiction up to 12 nautical miles.
Independent MLA Vijai Sardesai raised the crucial issue of use of FLAs and LEDs by certain fishermen, which has developed a fear of fish famine in the State.
“Goa once looked at as an exporter of fish, is slowly becoming an importer of fish. With FLAs and LED use, the situation will worsen leading to fish famine,” he said during Zero Hour.
Pointing out that the Kerala government has banned the use of LEDs on trawlers; Sardesai demanded that the Goa government too needs to introduce the law banning such modernised fishing.
Replying to the same, the minister assured the House that the fisheries department along with coastal police will conduct night patrolling along Goan waters to keep a strong vigil on such illegal activities. “We will ensure that such activities aren’t reported in our jurisdiction,” he said.
Furtado clarified that the government has not granted permission to any fishing trawlers to install FLAs or LED and the concept is totally banned in Goa’s water. “This entire act takes place beyond 12 nautical miles and not in our jurisdiction,” he said.
Independent MLA Rohan Khaunte raised the issue of closure of Goa Bhavan in Mumbai since June, 2015. He said that the Bhavan has been closed for repair; however, till date no work has been undertaken.
“The tender process is complete and soon we will issue a work order,” the Chief Minister assured.
