Panaji: Gusty winds and rough sea conditions kept mechanised fishing trawlers in Goa away from the waters even as the state government today lifted the 61-day ban on fishing.
The trawlers which were eagerly awaiting the fishing ban to be lifted on July 31, could not venture in the waters as sea remained rough due to continuous rains lashing the coastal state since a month.
There are 1000-odd trawlers which would vie for prized solar prawns during this season.
Mandovi Fishermen Co-operative Society (MFCS) President Menino Afonso said the fishermen are not ready to take a chance of venturing in the sea considering the difficult weather conditions.
Three different incidents of canoes capsizing were reported during this week due to unfavourable sea conditions.
Afonso said that although the ban has been lifted the actual fishing can start only when rains subside and sea conditions are favourable.
Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) in its warning issued yesterday had advised fishermen to stay away from the sea.
The warning continues for today too.
"Winds will be south-westerly with a speed of 45-50 KMPH temporarily reaching 60 KMPH in gust. Sea will be rough with mainly south westerly waves. Fishermen are advised not to go out in sea," the IMD warned.
PTI
