MAPUSA
Despite persistent demands from the local Ramponkar community, the Directorate of Fisheries has clarified that Caranzalem beach has not been declared a fishing zone and that no beaches in the State have been exclusively notified for fishing purposes.
Director of Fisheries Shamila Monteiro told The Goan that while certain areas have been notified as fish landing areas, no beach in Goa has been designated as a fishing zone.
“Certain areas are declared as fishing grounds but beaches we have not notified as exclusively for fishing,” Monteiro said.
“Traditional fishermen land their catch on several beaches in the State and therefore we have only notified such areas as fish landing areas,” she added.
She explained that while fishing grounds refer to areas where fishing activities take place, fish landing areas are notified to facilitate landing and handling of catch by traditional fishermen.
“No areas in the State are declared as fishing zones, but wherever fishing activities happen, it is considered a fishing ground,” she added.
Monteiro acknowledged that Caranzalem, much like nearby Nauxim, is considered a good ground for fishing.
The clarification comes amid renewed demands by the Caranzalem Ramponkars Association to formally designate the beach as a fishing zone to protect it from encroachment by water sports operators and other non-fishing activities.
Tensions flared recently after an unauthorised swimming event was held on Caranzalem beach, leading to confrontations between participants and local fishermen.
Following the incident, the Fisheries Department sought reports from officials on the matter and clarified that no official permission had been granted for any event at the site.
Monteiro confirmed that the department has since received a representation from the local fishing community urging the government to restrict such activities.
“The fishermen have said that the fishing community must be taken into confidence before granting any permission for events in the area,” Monteiro said.
