Fishermen say no to opening of SGPDA wholesale fish market

Margao: Fishermen belonging to the South Goa Mechanised Boat Owners’ Association, on Thursday, said they are against the opening of the SGPDA wholesale fish market because fish from outside the state would then be sold.

Speaking to the media persons, chairman of the association Antonio Fernandes said, “many vehicles come from neighbouring states to sell fish that is not fresh.”

“We don’t want the market to be open. Last year, we had the formalin fish issue. This time, they will bring coronavirus with them. Only 15 days are remaining for the fishing ban to be in force, so why open the market?  We have been selling the fish door-to-door, and it is going on well. On April 16, we had filed a complaint with the police stating that fish from outside the state was being sold there. Soon after it had stopped, but it has started again now,” said Fernandes.

A traditional fisherman Domingo Rodrigues said that the Chief Minister should work on ensuring that the borders are completely sealed.

“The Margao wholesale market should not be opened. The Chief Minister should see that the borders are sealed properly before opening the market. The market can be opened for Goan fishermen but not for the outsiders,” he added.

The association, that comprises over 100 owners of mechanised boats and traditional rampons from Benaulim and Colva as members also said that till the current situation over coronavirus prevails, the market should not be opened.

Meanwhile, ex-MLA Francisco ‘Mickky’ Pacheco also voiced a similar opinion.  “The SGPDA market was started for Goan ramponkars and boat owners to allow them to sell the fish they catch. There is no hurry to open the market when only 15 days are left for the fishing ban to start. It will only help the fishing agents who sell fish with formalin. During the lockdown, Goan fishermen are happy to sell their fish in villages where Goans get it directly,” he stated in a press statement issued to the media.