the goan I network
MARGAO
The three boat owners operating from the Cutbona fishing jetty, who have been accused of getting migrant crew from across the border in violation of the novel coronavirus lockdown now face the prospects of paying penalty in a novel manner “ by footing the quarantine bill of their crew members.
The boat owners have been directed by the Director of Fisheries to foot the bill of their respective crew members quarantined at the Margao Residency at the rate of Rs 2,500 a day per person.
Fisheries Director Dr Shamila Monteiro told The Goan that while two of the boat owners have agreed to foot the quarantine bill, a positive decision has also come in from the third owner.
Around 20 crew members who had entered the state from neighbouring Karnataka are presently quarantined at the Margao Residency for the last three-four days.
The Margao Residency quarantine is funded by the State exchequer, but the boat owners have been told to foot the bill of their crew members as they violated the lockdown norm.
The Goan understands that the health officials were scheduled to conduct rapid tests on the crew members, but the decision was kept on hold after doubts were raised on its efficacy.
That’s not all. The Fisheries Director informed that the three boat owners have been issued notices and asked to explain why their licenses should not be suspended. The three fishing boats have been impounded at the Cutbona fishing jetty, with directions not to venture out in the sea until further orders.
“Action as deemed fit will be taken as per the law after receiving the boat owners’ replies to the notices,” Monteiro added.
