As Goa’s Zuari River remains a lifeline for local communities, small-scale fishers are raising their voices against recurrent illegal fishing by large trawlers and purse-seine boats. The National Platform for Small Scale Fish Workers (NPSSFW), India’s largest federation of fish workers, recently reached out to Goa’s Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant, urging immediate action to safeguard the river’s marine resources and support local livelihoods.
The Crisis at Hand
The year 2023 saw an increase in illegal fishing activities in the Zuari River, significantly harming the small-scale fishing communities. Despite numerous complaints and calls for intervention, the authorities have been slow to respond, with illegal fishing continuing unabated. A recent incident on December 30, 2023, exemplifies the urgency of the situation, where five trawlers conducted illegal trawling, operating covertly by switching off their lights. Local fishers reported the activity to the Fisheries Department, but the response was one of helplessness, citing a lack of staff to act.
Why Illegal Fishing is Detrimental
Illegal fishing harms both the environment and the local economy:
- Damage to Marine Ecology: Trawling disrupts the delicate balance of the river’s ecosystem, impacting fish populations and marine biodiversity, which are crucial for the long-term health of the river.
- Loss of Livelihoods: Small-scale fishers depend on sustainable practices for their income. Large-scale illegal fishing reduces fish availability, jeopardizing the incomes and food security of thousands who rely on the river.
The Call for Government Action
In their letter, the NPSSFW urged the Chief Minister to:
- Enforce Immediate Measures: Take strict steps to stop illegal fishing in the Zuari River.
- Establish a Joint Task Force: Create a watchdog body comprising Fisheries Department officials, local police, and fishing community representatives to ensure prompt action.
- Hold Officials Accountable: Take disciplinary actions against Fisheries Department staff who fail to protect the livelihoods of small-scale fishers.
Towards Sustainable Fishing Practices in Goa
Protecting the Zuari River requires a holistic approach. Government intervention, combined with community vigilance, can help prevent illegal activities and promote sustainable fishing. The NPSSFW’s demands reflect an urgent need for regulatory change to ensure that small-scale fishers and their families can thrive.
Join the Movement
Stay updated with the NPSSFW’s efforts to protect small-scale fishers across India. To support their cause, follow smallscalefishworkers.org and spread awareness about the challenges facing coastal communities.
By working together, we can preserve Goa’s rivers, protect marine life, and ensure that small-scale fishers continue to benefit from the natural resources they’ve relied on for generations.
