VASCO: Opposing the import of fish from outside due to prevailing COVID pandemic situation in State, the Goenchea Raponkarancho Ekvott (GRE) on Friday demanded that the trucks loaded with fish of local fishermen should be allowed in the premises of Margao SGPDA wholesale fish market.

Speaking to this daily, General Secretary Olencio Simoes informed that during a meeting of the fishermen associations in Margao it was discussed and decided to support the “Vocal for Local” mantra of Prime Minister, to only allow the vehicles of local fishermen and to prohibit the import of fish from the other States in the wholesale market till the pandemic is in control.

When asked why such a decision has been taken by his association, to this Simoes replied that last month there was a case of COVID, which got the infection after coming in contact with a person from Andhra Pradesh, and later the cases spiked. Further, it was also agreed by the Chief Minister that the community transmission has already started in State and only stern precautions can stop it from spreading more, therefore our association along with others put forth some demands such as to prohibit import of fish from the neighbouring States.

He said, “40 vehicles of only local fishermen to be allowed at a time in the Margao wholesale market till the pandemic is in control.”

“Installation of thermal scanners and hand sanitizers at entry points, daily sanitisation of the market area and social distancing norms should be followed,” Simoes added.