In the picturesque village of Benaulim, nestled along the sun-kissed shores of Goa, a group of local fisherwomen find themselves grappling with an unexpected challenge – the aftermath of sudden heavy rain.
The recent downpour caught them off guard, disrupting their routine and leading to substantial financial setbacks. The lack of a designated drying space, despite promises made by the fisheries department, has forced these women to improvise, making use of the only space available – the village roads. This not only poses a logistical challenge but also raises concerns about the hygiene and quality of the dried fish.
With an average drying time of four days required for the fish to attain the desired quality, the women are engaged in a waiting game that tests their patience and resilience. Each day, they vigilantly monitor the drying process, knowing that the slightest neglect could lead to contamination and spoilage, further exacerbating their economic woes.
While the women of Benaulim exhibit commendable resourcefulness, the absence of support from the fisheries department has left them in a precarious situation. Beyond the financial losses and logistical challenges, the human cost of this predicament is undeniable. The women of Benaulim, the backbone of the local fishing industry, are enduring stress and uncertainty as they navigate the delicate process of their livelihood without the proper infrastructure in place.