Will discuss industry concerns with CM, says fisheries minister

Panaji: Fisheries Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar said he will discuss concerns facing Goa’s fishing industry with chief minister Pramod Sawant before the resumption of fishing activities on Aug 1, particularly in light of uncertainties surrounding fuel supplies amid the ongoing conflict in west Asia.

Goa is currently under its annual monsoon fishing ban, which started on June 1 and will culminate on July 31, during which mechanised fishing activities are prohibited to allow for fish breeding and to ensure maritime safety during adverse weather conditions.

Addressing concerns that the fishing sector could face when the new season begins if disruptions linked to the west Asia conflict continue, Halarnkar said it was too early to predict the situation. “By the time the season begins, the situation may recover. We cannot say that the present scarcity will continue forever,” he said.

Industry stakeholders have expressed concerns over reports of diesel and LPG shortages, fearing that prolonged supply disruptions could affect fishing operations and increase costs for vessel owners and fishermen once boats return to sea.