VASCO
According to the Coast Guard, though the fishing ban was lifted, the fishermen need to be very cautious while venturing into the sea, as the monsoon seems vigorous this year with heavy rains.Briefing the media, Coast Guard DIG MV Baadkar said the Coast Guard organises special community interaction programmes with the fishing community in various fishing villages to brief them about safe guidelines before venturing into the sea.“The caution is also applicable to all water sports operators and leisure crafts operating in the seas. Besides ships, the Coast Guard has been operating helicopters for swift response to maritime search and rescue, pollution and maritime reconnaissance capabilities for the coastal security of the State,” said Baadkar.“In this regard, the Coast Guard has requested the Directorate of Fisheries to re-sensitise the community on certain aspects during this fishing season,” added Baadkar.Baadkar requested the trawler owners to exercise extreme caution at sea during rough weather conditions by following directions like carrying adequate life-saving equipments on board, importance of group fishing to help each other during distress, sharing of information with Coast Guard, especially on seeing any unknown boat/vessel at sea.“Contact Coast Guard on toll free No 1554 for any eventuality at sea instead of calling the local MLA, fisheries minister and other government officials for speedy rescue operations.”Baadkar further requested the trawler owners to carry biometric cards and boat documents, failing which the Coast Guard will sent back the trawlers to the jetty without allowing them to fish, carry safety beacons/personnel locator beacons, radio communication equipments (VHF), DATs, carry temporary repair kits, extra fuel and ration, etc.Baadkar informed that Goa is the only state to provide Rescue Personal Location Beacon to the fishing trawlers. “The State government has ordered about 600 RPLB units and 300 are already given to the fishing trawlers.”
