NT Reporter
Margao
Following complaints from the Rachol panchayat, officials from the Department of Fisheries conducted an inspection of nearly 60 fishing boats allegedly anchored in the Zuari river at Ilha de Rachol.
Rachol sarpanch Joseph Vaz stated that the issue has persisted for several years. According to Vaz, boat owners anchor large fishing boats in the river at Ilha de Rachol during the annual fishing ban period from June 1 to July 31.
“The boat owners anchor their fishing boats here, causing us a lot of trouble. The Department of Fisheries knows very well that it is illegal but takes no action. If the authorities do not act this time, we will definitely approach the court,” Vaz said.
The panchayat stated that the anchoring of the boats has blocked the natural water channel of the Zuari river. According to it, this has altered the flow of water and resulted in pollutants washing onto the riverbanks. “The crew of these parked vessels routinely use the open spaces in village areas, creating highly unhygienic conditions for residents. Villagers are scared to step out of their homes at night. We demand that the government immediately address this issue,” said Pascoal Dias, a resident of Ilha de Rachol.
When questioned by the media on whether the Fisheries Department can
grant permission for the boats to be anchored at the site, officials answered in the negative.
“We will submit our inspection report to the Director of Fisheries for further action,” an official said.
The Rachol panchayat and villagers demanded action against those responsible for the anchoring of the boats.
