In a joint operation on Sunday night , the Goa Fisheries Department and the Coastal Police seized a Goa-registered fishing boat engaged in illegal LED fishing near the Chapora coast.
The incident has highlighted the involvement of not only vessels from Karnataka but also local boats in large-scale illegal LED fishing activities. The seized boat, identified as Savitri, was registered in Goa, though the exact quantity of fish onboard remained undetermined as of late Sunday night.
The crackdown follows persistent demands from traditional fishermen’s organization Goyachyo Ramponkarancho Ekvot to enforce a ban on LED fishing, which they argue is detrimental to marine resources and threatens the livelihoods of traditional fishing communities.
On March 19, the organization submitted a formal representation to the Fisheries Department, urging authorities to take strict measures against the practice.
Representatives also met Fisheries Minister Neelkanth Halarnkar at his residence, emphasizing the need for decisive action. However, the group has stressed that isolated crackdowns are insufficient and has called for a sustained, statewide enforcement campaign.
Despite repeated complaints from Goyachyo Ramponkarancho Ekvot regarding the involvement of local boats in LED fishing, enforcement efforts have primarily targeted vessels from Malpe, Karnataka. However, the recent seizure of Savitri, a locally registered boat (IND. GA. 01.MM. 421), signals the first significant action against Goa-based operators. Authorities have yet to disclose ownership details or the precise quantity of fish recovered.
Acting on intelligence about a vessel engaged in LED fishing near the shore, the Fisheries Department and the Coastal Police intercepted the boat, which was found to be equipped with high-capacity generators and an array of powerful LED lights.
Officials suspect that the vessel served as an auxiliary lighting unit, providing illumination for a primary fishing boat operating nearby. The absence of the main fishing vessel during the raid has raised concerns among traditional fishermen, who question why the operation failed to capture the principal offender.
The controversy surrounding LED fishing enforcement has been ongoing. Former Fisheries Director Shamila Monteiro had previously supported the use of 60 to 150 KVA generator sets, a stance that was met with strong opposition from traditional fishing communities.
Allegations of corruption and financial ties between Monteiro and LED fishing operators led to her removal from office in September 2024. However, fishermen argue that the policies enacted during her tenure continue to harm their industry.
The incident has reignited demands for stricter enforcement against LED fishing, with traditional fishermen calling for comprehensive action to protect the state’s marine ecosystem and sustain their livelihoods.