MAPUSA
The Fisheries department has directed fishing boat owners and masters to take immediate measures to prevent mosquito breeding on fishing vessels and at jetties amid the prevailing monsoon conditions and reported cases of dengue and other vector-borne diseases.
Fisheries Director Shamila Monteiro has asked boat owners to ensure that no stagnant water accumulates on vessels, canoes and other equipment, with tarpaulins to be used wherever necessary to prevent rainwater from collecting.
Small boats, canoes and dinghies that are not in use have been directed to be turned upside down and properly covered.
Owners have also been told to provide drainage holes in tyres used as fenders to prevent them from becoming breeding sites for mosquitoes.
The department has directed regular removal of water accumulated in grinding stones, plastic barrels and other containers on fishing vessels. Unused fish boxes and crates should either be removed or stored upside down, while scrap and other discarded articles capable of collecting rainwater must be cleared from vessels and jetty premises.
Boat owners have also been cautioned against dumping plastic bottles, tyres, scrap material, coconut shells, fish boxes, crates and other waste in the water, on jetties or in surrounding areas.
The department has stressed the need to maintain hygiene and sanitation among fishing crews and labourers and directed that bathing, urination and defecation in open or public areas be prevented.
Crew members and labourers working on fishing vessels have been advised to undergo regular screening for vector-borne diseases at the concerned primary health centre or health centre. Those developing fever or other suspected symptoms have been asked to seek medical attention without delay.
Boat owners and masters have been directed to cooperate with the Fisheries Department, Health Department and local bodies during inspections, surveillance and vector-control operations and comply with directions issued by health authorities.
As part of the preventive measures, owners have also been instructed to designate a nodal officer for each fishing vessel to monitor compliance with the guidelines.
The name and telephone number of the nodal officer must be submitted to the Fisheries Officer or Assistant Superintendent of Fisheries at the respective jetty or office.
