Panaji: The Goa government has stated that it has not received any official report regarding alleged heavy metal contamination in fish caught off Caranzalem beach. Fisheries Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar, addressing the issue on Wednesday, called the circulating news speculative and said it was creating unnecessary panic among the public.
Minister Calls Reports Speculative, Seeks Official Study
Minister Halarnkar clarified that the scientists behind the rumored study had not submitted their findings to either the state fisheries department or the environment board. He expressed concern that such unverified claims could severely impact the livelihoods of local fisherfolk, who depend on the daily catch for their income.
"The news that is doing the rounds is only creating panic in people's minds," Halarnkar said. He pointed out that reputable institutions like the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) and Goa University regularly conduct research on the state's coastal waters, and they would be the primary sources for any validated data.
Fisherfolk Raise Concerns, Government Initiates Probe
Despite the lack of an official report, the minister has taken a proactive step. He has instructed the fisheries department to formally write to the concerned parties and submit a detailed report on the matter. The government's future course of action will be determined based on the findings of this report.
"I instructed the fisheries department to write to the people concerned and submit a report. Based on the report, we will decide what must be done," Halarnkar stated. He assured that if any credible study confirms the presence of heavy metals posing a risk to public health, the government will not hesitate to take appropriate and swift action.
Local Fishermen Demand Clarity for Livelihood Security
The minister's remarks come in the backdrop of direct appeals from the Caranzalem fishing community. Worried about the allegations, a group of fisherfolk met with Smita Mazumdar, the deputy director of fisheries. They raised serious concerns and demanded that experts clearly clarify whether the fish from the area is safe for consumption.
Their primary fear is that sustained rumors, without official confirmation or denial, could destroy market confidence and jeopardize their primary source of income. Halarnkar acknowledged this concern, emphasizing that the government is mindful of the potential economic fallout.
The minister reiterated that established research bodies like the NIO would approach the government directly with any alarming findings, as it is a matter of public health. For now, the Goa government awaits an official report while attempting to quell public fear over the safety of fish from Caranzalem beach.
