PANAJI: Velim MLA Cruz Silva has urged the Goa government and concerned authorities to urgently clarify reports of cadmium contamination in oysters, saying the issue affects both the state’s fishing community and consumers.
Silva has submitted representations to the Fisheries Department, Health Services, Food & Drugs Administration (FDA), Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB), Environment Department, Chief Secretary, Secretaries of Fisheries and Health, and the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), seeking verification of the reported contamination.
With the fishing season having recently commenced, Silva said uncertainty over the safety of oysters and other shellfish is causing concern among fishermen, shellfish collectors and vendors across Goa.
He highlighted the situation in Velim, which has a large fishing community and is home to Cutbona, one of Goa’s major fishing jetties. Several families in the area depend on oysters, mussels, clams and other shellfish for their livelihood.
“These are poor traditional fishermen and coastal families for whom shellfish collection is their bread and butter. They cannot be left in fear and uncertainty because of lack of official communication,” Silva said.
The MLA has demanded that the government immediately obtain and verify the official NIO report and conduct comprehensive testing of shellfish from different locations across Goa.
He also called for clear communication to the public regarding the findings and any potential health risks associated with consuming contaminated shellfish.
“If there is a health risk, act immediately. If there is no risk, tell the people clearly. But silence cannot continue,” Silva said.
Silva further urged Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and the Fisheries Minister to personally intervene and ensure that both public health and the livelihoods of Goa’s traditional fishing communities are protected.
“This is not just Velim’s issue—it is an issue concerning Goa’s entire fishing community. The Government must provide clarity and support without further delay,” he said.
