MAPUSA
In a bid to ensure quicker response to illegal fishing activities along Goa’s coastline, the Fisheries Department has decided to deploy hired canoes at five strategic coastal points to strengthen near-shore patrolling.
The initiative is aimed at enabling faster interception of offending vessels by positioning patrolling units closer to locations where violations are frequently reported.
“We are getting complaints from traditional fishermen stating that by the time our staff arrives after complaints are filed, the violators buzz off and no illegal activity is observed due to the delay,” said Shamila Monteiro, Director of Fisheries.
“If there is a local canoe in the vicinity, the department officer and police can promptly act and easily catch the violator,” she added.
Monteiro said the department had already invited quotations for hiring the canoes but is yet to receive responses from local fishermen.
Under the plan, static patrolling units will be stationed at Arambol (Pernem), Calangute (Bardez), Benaulim (Salcete), Baina (Mormugao) and Talpona (Canacona).
“The five places were decided based on the number of complaints received. We got maximum complaints from these spots,” she said.
The canoes – measuring 30 to 38 feet and powered by 10 HP motors – will be hired on an hourly basis and manned by a minimum two-member crew.
Each boat will carry lifesaving gear, firefighting tools and other mandatory safety equipment as stipulated by the department.
When asked whether the initiative is part of a long-term coastal surveillance strategy, Monteiro said the department will “see how it works for a month or so” before deciding whether to continue the arrangement.
Meanwhile, the Fisheries Department’s plan to introduce drone-based aerial surveillance to curb illegal fishing remains in limbo.
The proposal – which aims to provide a broader real-time view of the coastline – awaits clearance from the government, delaying its implementation.
