Fish happens to be the staple diet of Goans. However over the past few days Goans have been shying away from buying fish after the FDA blew hot and cold over the presence of formalin in the fish brought into Goa from other states. The fish markets in the state are wearing a deserted look.
The government needs to put to an end the ongoing formalin-in-fish row so that Goans are able to enjoy eating fish without any confusing thoughts flooding their mind. It is pertinent to note that the 61-day fishing ban comes to a close on July 31, which is less than two weeks away, and the fish markets will again be flooded with fresh fish from August 1.
However there is every possibility of fish from states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Odisha and other states entering the wholesale market in Margao even after July 31. This fish coming from other states may continue to be laced with formalin.
Unless there is a total ban on the import of fish from other states, Goans could continue consuming fish with suspicion.
Hence it is desirable for the government to clear this air of uncertainty over the safety of consuming fish so that fish lovers in the state can enjoy eating fish bought from the local fishermen when the ban on fishing activities in the state is lifted.
ADELMO FERNANDES, Vasco
