Fishermen told to stay alert, use tracking devices and report suspicious activity to authorities
PANAJI
Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant held a high-level security meeting with senior officials and representatives from all security agencies at his official residence in Altinho. The aim was to review the State’s readiness and improve coordination among the agencies.
Top officials from the defence forces, Goa Police and other agencies attended the closed-door meeting at the Chief Minister’s residence in Mahalaxmi, Altinho, on Friday. According to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office, the meeting focused on checking current security arrangements and strengthening coordination for better preparedness and efficiency.
The meeting followed increased presence of security personnel at public places and important locations across Goa. Goa Police’s Anti-Terrorist Squad is also carrying out security operations in key areas. Meanwhile, the Fisheries Department issued an advisory to fishermen, asking fishing vessel operators to stay within the 12-nautical-mile territorial waters and remain extra alert, especially near fishing jetties and blocks.
Fishermen have been told to submit full details of all crew members to the local fisheries officer or surveyor before setting out to sea. Vessels must get fishing passes in advance and report to the authorities once they return. Using transponders for continuous tracking is now compulsory. Any suspicious activity must be reported immediately to the concerned fisheries officer, fisheries surveyor, nearest coastal police station or local police station.
The department also requested fishermen to cooperate with its officials and other related departments to help ensure proper safety and security measures.
Notably, IRB personnel have been asked to report for duty and their leaves have been cancelled.
