From October 5, Goa’s traditional fishing canoes will take on a crucial role in a new coastal security initiative aimed at preventing illegal fishing by neighboring states. Under the supervision of the Directorate of Fisheries, these boats will be pivotal in enforcing cross-border fishing laws and protecting Goa’s waters.
To ensure constant surveillance, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has instructed the Goa Police to deploy six armed officers on each patrol boat, providing 24-hour coverage of the coastline. Fisheries Director Nilkanth Halarnkar confirmed that the department’s lone patrol vessel will also be part of the mission, staffed by a fisheries superintendent, two department officials, and police personnel for enforcement.
Local fishers, particularly traditional ramponkars, are being urged by Halarnkar to report any sightings of unauthorized fishing vessels from other states. “We must collaborate to safeguard our waters. Neighbouring fishermen can pose unpredictable risks, especially if they are armed, but our police are ready to address any potential threats,” he stated.
The initiative follows growing reports from the local fishing community about sightings of Malpe canoes near Baina Beach, which have raised concerns about illegal fishing operations in Goa’s waters.