Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi

Udupi, Oct 6: The Goa state fisheries department has seized two fishing boats from Malpe in Udupi district on charges of illegally encroaching upon the Goa coastline and engaging in bull trawling.

The operation took place around 5 am on Saturday, involving coastal police and local fishermen. Goa fisheries minister Nilkanth Halarnkar announced that the fish on the seized boats would be auctioned, and strict action would be taken against the boat owners.

Local fishermen had raised complaints about fishing boats from Malpe entering Goa's waters and conducting illegal fishing. Allegations also surfaced that the fishermen were troubling locals.

A complaint was lodged with the police a few days prior to the operation. In response, minister Halarnkar had discussions with senior officials from Karnataka’s fisheries department.

Despite previous warnings, fishing boats from Malpe were reported to be operating in Goa's waters. To combat this, the Goa fisheries department had established a special task force. Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant also issued a warning for stringent action against such boats.

During Saturday's operation, the Malpe fishing boats were seized, although two other boats managed to escape. The seized boats were brought to the Panaji jetty, and minister Halarnkar indicated that similar actions would continue against illegal fishing activities.

Proposal to hike fines

Fisheries department supervisor Chandresh Haladnakar mentioned that a meeting of departmental officials was held following directives from Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant.

He confirmed that actions were taken accordingly, and legal proceedings would be initiated against the owners of the seized boats.

The department is also working to increase the fine amount to Rs 10 lac, with the possibility of further increases if the law changes.