GRE Celebrates Feast of St. Peter and Paul at Velsao Dando, Calls for Protection of Marine Heritage in Zuari Bay

Velsao Dando, Goa | June 29, 2025 — The Goenchea Ramponnkarancho Ekvott (GRE) celebrated the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul at the historic Convent of Saint Peter and Paul, Velsao Dando, with deep reverence and cultural significance. Saint Peter, known as the patron saint of fishermen, holds special importance for Goa’s traditional fishing community.

The annual feast not only marks a solemn religious observance but also symbolizes the beginning of the traditional ramponn fishing season, a time when local fishermen prepare to venture into deeper waters. The celebrations included prayers, hymns, and blessings of the sea and fishing equipment, seeking divine protection and a bountiful catch for the season ahead.

Speaking at the occasion, Olencio Simoes, General Secretary of GRE, raised serious concerns over proposed tourism activities in Zuari Bay, particularly at Chicalim and Sancoale. He warned the government against granting permissions for such activities in ecologically sensitive zones that are home to rich marine biodiversity, including endangered species such as windowpane oysters.

“Several traditional fisherfolk, especially from SC/ST communities, depend on these coastal zones for harvesting shellfish during low tides. We strongly demand the immediate withdrawal of any tourism-related permissions in the area,” said Simoes. “We also urge the Goa State Biodiversity Board (GSBB) to declare Chicalim and Sancoale bays as marine heritage zones.”

The GRE reiterated its commitment to protecting Goa’s traditional fishing practices and marine ecosystems from commercial exploitation, emphasizing that cultural celebrations like the Feast of St. Peter and Paul must go hand-in-hand with strong advocacy for environmental justice.

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