Goemkarponn Desk
PANAJI: Fisheries Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar informed that the state government will install CCTV cameras as jetties across the state in a bid to curb illegal LED fishing activities.
“We must promote sustainable fishing activities in the state. LED fishing should be stopped at any cost. We will now be installing CCTV cameras at all jetties. Work has already started at Vasco jetty and others will follow,” said Halarnkar
He further warned that legal action will be initiated against officers of Fisheries Department if evidence of LED fishing is found at any fishing jetty.
Fisheries Department is contemplating to make it mandatory for all fish traders to register with the department. By doing this, only registered traders will be permitted to enter the jetties, he said adding “I have instructed the Director of Fisheries to initiate the process.”
The minister said that many fish traders operate their businesses and utilize facilities at various jetties across the state but do not pay the trading fee to the government.
Halarnkar said special passes are issued to trawlers certifying that they are not fitted with LED lights.
He said Coastal Police will inspect trawlers for compliance.
A trawler fitted with LED lights was intercepted by the Marine Police and a case was registered against the owner of the vessel, the minister said.
“Many fishing traders operate their businesses at Malim jetty. They seek help from government subsidies and utilize facilities but do not pay the trading fee. The Chairman of Malim jetty society functions as per his own whims and fancies,’ said Halarnkar.
He further said that illegal businesses are operating at Malim Jetty. The government wants to crack down on these illegal business operations and so has decided to take action.”
