A recent scientific study titled “Metal bioavailability in sediments and bioaccumulation in edible fishes from Caranzalem beach, Goa,” by researchers from Goa University has found that several commonly consumed fish species accumulate metals beyond permissible limits, raising concerns for seafood consumers in the State. The findings suggested that prolonged consumption of contaminated fish could lead to non-carcinogenic health effects, underscoring the need for closer monitoring of seafood safety along Goa’s urban coastline.
Fisheries Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar assured that the issue is being scientifically examined and that the state government will act only on the basis of expert findings. He said that NIO and Goa University teams are conducting various studies, and the government will take appropriate action if their findings indicate any harm.
On Wednesday, traditional fishermen from Caranzalem met officials of the Directorate of Fisheries and expressed concern that their business could he hit and questioned the credibility of the university. They also demanded a proper investigation to identify the source of contamination. The Fisheries Director appealed to the university to refrain from putting such reports in the public domain without the approval of the government. There is no doubt that Goa University is a credible institution, and scientific research is essential in safeguarding public health, but such sensitive material needs careful handling considering the fact that the lives of consumers and the livelihoods of fishermen and are at stake.
In the absence of details, the study raises questions of credibility and throws a net of insecurity over those who are dependent on fishing. The researchers must bring into the public domain details of the source of contamination and whether the contamination is unique to the waters of Caranzalem, which has been a key fishing hub for ramponkars.
However, here is the other side. Historically, studies have consistently shown marine pollution. Microplastics, which include fibers and fragments from polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, and nylon, have been detected in fish. These plastics move up the food chain through bioaccumulation, threatening the safety of seafood and the sustainability of the fishing industry. The presence of microplastics not only jeopardizes marine biodiversity but also poses grave health risks to consumers. The presence of microplastics in fish is well documented, but what has the Fisheries Department done in this regard? Is this not a threat?
Now consider this: The Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) in its annual report of 2024-25 stated that, not just beaches, but major rivers like Mandovi, Zuari, Tiracol, and Sinquerim are highly polluted and unfit for commercial fishing. The list also included the Mapusa River, Sal River, and the Cumbharjua Canal. The tourist-centric beaches -- Tiracol, Miramar, Calangute, Morjim, Vagator, Arambol, Baga, Bambolim in North Goa and Mobor, Baina, Galjibag, Colva, Velsao, Colva, Bogmolo, Betalbatim, Benaulim, Varca, Agonda, Palolem and Rajbhag in South, were reported to be highly polluted and infested with disease-causing pathogens. Water samples collected from March 2024 to March 2025 have indicated a high concentration of faecal coliform and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), both of which point to the presence of pathogens and bacteria in water. What is being done in this regard?
The Goa University study’s findings on heavy metals corroborate earlier research, emphasising that contamination is a complex, multi-faceted issue. However, the silence of officials is deafening. The path forward lies in not concealing findings, but through transparency and responsible communication. For the Fisheries Department, it would do some good if it at least acted on the larger issue of marine pollution, rather than exhibiting ignorance over the issue.
