The Akhil Goa Kshatriya Pagi Samaj (AGKPS), a traditional fishermen organization based in Canacona, has urged the fisheries department to enforce a complete ban on the use of generator sets (DG sets) in fishing trawlers. This call for action aims to curb the detrimental impact of LED fishing practices that have been prohibited since 2016.
AGKPS President Divakar Pagi argues that DG sets, ranging from 60 to 150 kVA, are predominantly used to power LED lights, which are employed to attract fish over distances of up to 5 kilometers. These LED lights, often consuming between 1600 to 5000 watts and used in quantities of 15 to 25 per boat, generate intense heat that adversely affects marine ecosystems. The resulting damage includes the destruction of juvenile fish, corals, and marine vegetation.
A recent report from Goa Shipyard Limited, dated January 24, 2024, supports AGKPS’s concerns. The report, which surveyed 16 random fishing boats across Goa, revealed that the DG sets are primarily used for powering galley equipment such as refrigerators, air-conditioners, and ovens—none of which were found on the surveyed boats. This indicates that the DG sets are indeed being used for LED lighting purposes.
Pagi further highlighted the broader implications of allowing DG sets. With approximately 230,000 registered fishing crafts across India, the continued use of DG sets could lead to widespread adoption of LED fishing practices, exacerbating the environmental damage.
The AGKPS’s demand underscores the urgency of enforcing stricter regulations to protect marine life and preserve the health of fishing ecosystems.
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