MARGAO
Questions have been raised over the status of transponders installed on fishing vessels in Goa after fishermen pointed out that the devices, introduced for vessel tracking, monitoring and safety, are reportedly not being operated.
The Cutbona Fisheries Cooperative Society has written to the Director of Fisheries seeking clarity on the functioning of the transponder system installed on mechanised fishing vessels operating from major jetties, including Cutbona.
Society chairman Savio D’Silva said fishermen had cooperated with the government by allowing the devices to be installed, but expressed concern that they were not being used for their intended purpose.
D’Silva questioned the rationale behind the installation at considerable public expense if the devices are not actively operated and monitored. He sought details on the system’s objectives, reasons for its apparent non-operation and whether the devices remain technically functional and connected to the monitoring network.
The society has also sought details on the agency responsible for operating, monitoring and maintaining the system, as well as the total expenditure incurred on its procurement, installation and implementation.
D’Silva further asked whether the government plans to discontinue, replace or modify the system, and whether any alternative mechanism is being used to track fishing vessels if the transponders are not operational.
He stressed that transparency was essential as the devices were installed under a government-mandated safety and monitoring initiative.
“The fishing community has cooperated with the government by allowing these devices to be installed on their vessels. Therefore, there should be complete transparency regarding their present status and the reasons for their non-operation,” D’Silva said.
He also sought details on measures initiated by the Fisheries Department to make the system operational, particularly given its importance for vessel tracking, maritime safety and emergency response.
Fisheries Director Dr Shamila Monteiro said the transponders were installed under a Central government scheme. She acknowledged that the devices could not be used effectively due to operational issues.
Monteiro said the government agency entrusted with installing the transponders had been asked to upgrade the devices so they could meet the scheme’s intended objectives.
