Panaji, Goa: Goa Forward Party MLA Vijai Sardesai has questioned the delay in commissioning the fish cold storage facility being developed under the South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA), raising the issue during the Goa Legislative Assembly session.
Responding to the concerns, Fisheries Minister Nilkant Halarnkar assured the House that the long-awaited facility would become operational soon. He informed the Assembly that ₹29.78 crore has already been paid towards the execution of the project.
Delay Raised in Assembly
During the discussion, Vijai Sardesai sought an explanation for the prolonged delay in making the fish cold storage facility functional despite substantial public investment.
He highlighted the importance of the project for Goa’s fishing community, stating that modern storage infrastructure is essential to reduce post-harvest losses, preserve fish quality, and improve returns for fishermen.
The MLA also sought clarity on the timeline for commissioning the facility.
Minister Assures Early Commissioning
Replying on behalf of the government, Fisheries Minister Nilkant Halarnkar said the project is in its final stages and will be operational soon.
He informed the Assembly that ₹29.78 crore has already been paid for the construction and development of the facility, indicating that the government remains committed to completing the project at the earliest.
The minister expressed confidence that the infrastructure would soon be available for use by fishermen and stakeholders in the fisheries sector.
Importance of Cold Storage Infrastructure
Cold storage facilities play a crucial role in preserving the freshness and quality of seafood by maintaining proper storage temperatures after fish are landed.
The availability of modern cold storage helps reduce spoilage, extends shelf life, supports better pricing for fishermen, and improves the efficiency of the seafood supply chain.
Such infrastructure is also considered essential for strengthening exports and ensuring a steady supply of quality seafood to domestic and international markets.
Benefits for Goa’s Fishing Community
Once operational, the facility is expected to benefit fishermen, fish vendors, traders, and seafood processors by providing improved storage capacity and reducing losses caused by inadequate preservation.
Industry stakeholders believe the project will strengthen Goa’s fisheries sector, improve market access, and contribute to the state’s coastal economy.
The facility is also expected to support value addition and improve overall efficiency in fish handling and distribution.
Awaiting Operational Launch
While the government’s assurance has offered optimism, stakeholders are now awaiting the official commissioning of the project.
Many in the fishing community have expressed hope that the facility will become operational without further delays and deliver the intended benefits to the sector.
Authorities are expected to announce the commissioning schedule after completing the remaining formalities.
Key Highlights
- MLA Vijai Sardesai raised concerns over delays in the fish cold storage project.
- The facility is being developed under the South Goa Planning and Development Authority.
- Fisheries Minister Nilkant Halarnkar said the project will be operational soon.
- The government informed the Assembly that ₹29.78 crore has already been paid for the project.
- The facility is expected to benefit Goa’s fishing community and strengthen seafood storage infrastructure.
The discussion in the Goa Legislative Assembly has once again brought attention to the importance of timely completion of public infrastructure projects. With the government assuring that the fish cold storage facility will soon be operational, fishermen and industry stakeholders will be looking forward to the project’s launch and the economic benefits it promises to deliver to Goa’s fisheries sector.
