Traditional fishermen in Arambol voiced their dissatisfaction on Thursday as government authorities proceeded with the demolition of their homes in Coastal Regulation Zones (CRZ). Protesting against the abrupt action, the fishermen are urgently seeking a resolution, demanding recognition of their rights to reside in the area.
The Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Act of 1991 mandated the Goa State Committee for Coastal Environment (GSCCE) to formulate Coastal Zone Management plans, categorizing coastal stretches as CRZs. Locals claim that no survey has been conducted since 1991, and these traditional fishermen are residing in the coastal belt before Goa’s Liberation.
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Government authorities, without adequate information, have begun threatening the fishermen to demolish their homes. The locals allege that the government plans to allocate the land to non-Goans at a higher price for the construction of shacks and guest houses.
Fishermen state that they were not notified about the demolition and highlight the lack of proper surveys conducted by the government in the CRZ, emphasizing that these traditional homes predate the amendments to CRZ regulations.
In their pursuit of justice, traditional fishermen met with Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai, presenting their concerns and seeking guidance and assistance for the affected fishermen. The fishermen have now escalated their demands for justice in this unfolding situation. They have also reached out to Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant and Environment Minister Alexio Sequiera.
In response to their appeal, Environment Minister Alexio Sequiera has assured the fishermen that this issue will be addressed in the upcoming cabinet assembly, providing a ray of hope for resolution and justice for the affected traditional fishermen
