Fishermen from Varca and Benaulim have appealed to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant for the allocation of shore land to safely park their fishing boats during the monsoon off-season. With rough seas and storms posing a serious threat during this period, the lack of secure boat parking facilities leaves their vessels vulnerable to damage or being swept away.
Community representative Pele Fernandes stressed the urgency of the request, suggesting that a designated space in the Fisheries area of Benaulim would help mitigate potential losses. “If a storm strikes, we could lose everything. A proper parking area is essential for our safety,” he said.
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Currently, many fishermen are forced to leave their boats on open beaches, relying on makeshift anchoring methods that offer little protection. This not only endangers their livelihoods but can also cause environmental harm if drifting boats damage coastal habitats.
The appeal sheds light on a wider issue—Goa’s traditional fishing communities often lack essential infrastructure. Fishermen are calling on the state government to recognize their critical role in the coastal economy and invest in facilities that protect their assets.
With the monsoon season intensifying, the community is urging swift government intervention to allocate secure shore land. Doing so would help protect their boats, preserve their livelihoods, and enhance the long-term resilience of Goa’s fishing industry.
