PANAJI
The Goan: What is the current situation regarding illegal LED fishing in Goa and how prevalent is the issue?
Nilkanth Halarnkar: LED fishing is already banned but we have tracked down 2-3 such cases wherein necessary action was initiated. Fishing activities will be closed for two months in monsoon, starting June 1. We will still monitor for illegality within our jurisdiction while the Indian Coast Guard and Coastal police will also be patrolling their respective areas.
TG: What measures have the authorities taken to address illegal LED fishing in Goa? How effective has it been because the illegality continues unabated?
NH: Each state has allotted different colours to their respective fishing vessels. We, in Goa, are assigned a white colour code. The Fisheries department as well as the fishermen are always on alert to check for any illegality, following which necessary action is initiated. All measures are undertaken by us.
TG: When will the CCTV cameras at jetties be implemented?
NH: The project is under process and every jetty is earmarked for this scheme will be covered under CCTVs as soon as possible.
