PANAJI
The High Court of Bombay at Goa has directed the Ministry of Fisheries to take an early decision into a proposal of the State government requesting 14 patrol boats to combat LED fishing in the territorial borders.
During the hearing into petitions seeking directions to the State and Central governments to implement their orders prohibiting LED fishing, the High Court was informed about the Goa government's latest move into curbing the menace.
Advocate General Devidas Pangam informed the Bench that they have sent a proposal to the Ministry for allocating 14 patrol boats under the scheme of the Ministry of Fisheries of the Central Government to patrol the sea.
The Court, while directing the Ministry to take an early decision, has adjourned the matter for further hearing on December 7.
The State Government, Central Government, Directorate of Fishermen, Indian Coast Guard, Collectors and Superintendents of Police of North and South Goa, Superintendent of Coastal Security Police, and others are the defendants in the plea.
Meanwhile, the Fisheries Department has decided to establish a special independent Marine Enforcement Wing for which a proposal is sent to the government seeking approval.
