MARGAO: In a recent development, the All Goa Small Scale Responsible Fisheries Union convened a meeting to address growing concerns among the traditional fishing community at Caranzalem beach, near Panjim. The meeting, chaired by President Shaila D’mello and Secretary Laximan Mangueshkar, highlighted what they described to an imminent threat posed to livelihoods due to the proposed expansion of water sports activities by the Goa Tourism Department.
During the meeting, the Union passed resolutions aimed at safeguarding the interests of fishing communities against the encroachment of water sports activities. In a stern message to authorities, the union urged the Department of Tourism, the Department of Fisheries, and local legislators to refrain from endorsing any water sports initiatives that jeopardise traditional fishing practices.
Citing past protests carried out by the traditional fishermen of Caranzalem beach, the Union expressed solidarity with the fishing community.
In a letter addressed to the concerned departments and local authorities, the Union emphasised the need to prioritise the preservation of livelihoods over the promotion of recreational activities at Caranzalem beach.
It may be recalled that the Caranzalem Ramponkars Association had opposed the demarcation of the water sports zone at Caranzalem beach, arguing that the beach should be designated for fishing activities. The Ramponkars accused the State government of destroying their traditional occupation by introducing such activities. They questioned the Fisheries Department’s ability to grant permission for such events without taking them into confidence. Caranzalem Ramponkars Association President Francisco Vaz emphasised that the proposed water sports activities would destroy marine life and biodiversity.
Fisheries Union petition on curbing plastic pollution sent to Centre
MARGAO: The State government has decided to recommend a proposal it received from the All Goa Small Scale Responsible Fisheries Union for curbing the plastic menace in coastal areas and rivers to the Union government.
The Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) forwarded the memorandum it received from the Union after stating that it had taken cognisance of the concerns raised, which were affecting not just land areas but also various types of water bodies. It may be recalled that the Union had petitioned GCZMA to take immediate action to address the increasing plastic pollution in Goa’s rivers. The Union emphasised the detrimental impact of plastic waste on fishing activities, the health of the region’s rivers and the Arabian Sea, and the disruption of fish-spawning activities. They proposed banning the manufacture, sale, and purchase of plastic bags and sending recommendations to the Centre for similar bans.
They also called for public awareness programs, another program for cleaning up Goa’s rivers of existing plastic, a special task force overseeing coastal areas and rivers, and the introduction of river rescue boats to fetch floating plastic.
