Lack of manpower hurdle in curbing bull trawling: Goa minister

Goa Fisheries Minister Philip

Neri Rodrigues on Wednesday said his department does not have enough manpower and equipment to keep a check on bull trawling and LED light fishing, which is banned in the state.

In 2017, the Goa government had banned fishing by use of LED lights or bull trawling in the state waters, as they result in overexploitation of the fishery resources.

A delegation of traditional fishermen met Rodrigues on Wednesday claiming that many trawlers were illegally using LED lights or indulging in bull trawling despite the ban.

Talking to reporters after meeting, Rodrigues admitted that his department is not does not have mechanism to catch these trawlers.

"The traditional fishermen say that because of advanced technology in fishing, the marine life will be finished. It will result in worst time for the fisheries sector," the minister said.

"We are not able to curb bull trawling and LED light fishing, which is banned in the state. We don't have enough ...