MAPUSA
A noticeable dip in fish availability across Goa’s markets has sparked concern among consumers, with multiple factors -- from seasonal changes to operational challenges -- contributing to the shortfall.
While the end of the peak fishing season remains the primary reason, stakeholders say a shortage of commercial LPG cylinders has compounded the situation, affecting fishing operations.
With fish forming a staple part of the Goan diet, the reduced supply has begun to reflect both at landing points and in local markets. Inquiries with fishing associations, boat owners and traders reveal a complex interplay of natural and logistical issues behind the decline.
President of the All Goa Fishing Boat Owners Association (AGFBOA), Jose Philip D’Souza, said that while some operators have been hit by the shortage of cooking gas, many have improvised to keep their boats operational.
“Fishing cannot come to a standstill. We have labourers depending on us. In the absence of gas cylinders, some of us have started using diesel-run stoves onboard,” D’Souza said, adding that diesel is readily available as boats typically carry sufficient fuel for extended voyages.
He, however, maintained that the gas shortage alone does not explain the reduced fish catch.
“The season is coming to an end, and there are also climatic changes. These factors have contributed to the decline,” he said.
A different perspective was offered by Harshad Dhond, President of the All Goa Purse Seiners Boat Owners Association, who said the shortage of commercial gas cylinders has directly impacted fishing activity.
“Nearly 32 boats are currently stranded at Malim jetty, including two of mine, because gas is not available,” Dhond said.
He added that while a few boats with spare cylinders have ventured into the sea, they too may be forced to halt operations once supplies run out. Dhond termed diesel stoves impractical for deep-sea fishing operations.
Fish traders echoed concerns about declining catches, pointing to environmental changes as a significant factor.
Trader Leroy D’Costa said fluctuations in water temperature and wind patterns appear to be affecting fish behaviour and availability.
“Even anglers are reporting fewer catches. Fish are not biting like they used to,” he noted.
Another trader, Sagardeep Sirsaikar, attributed part of the problem to unsustainable fishing practices, alleging that the use of LED lights to attract large shoals is contributing to depletion of marine resources.
Meanwhile, Fisheries Minister Nilkant Halarnkar downplayed concerns of any unusual crisis, attributing the dip largely to seasonal trends.
“The peak fishing season along the west coast is from October to December. From March onwards, fish production naturally declines,” the minister said.
While the seasonal downturn is a known annual cycle, stakeholders say the coinciding shortage of commercial gas cylinders has added strain on the sector this year.
