Want to see the salt pans of Batim, Goa Velha?

Rohan Fernandes

Saltpans, also known as mitache agor locally, are a part of Goa's khazan lands.

Goa|Salt Pans of Goa|Curca | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

Salt harvesting has been done in Goa the traditional way for hundreds of years.

Goa|Salt Pans of Goa|Curca |rock salt | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

The process consist of three phases.

Goa|Salt Pans of Goa|Curca|rock salt|Salt Pan worker | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

The first phase takes place during the monsoon season, when the salt pans are flooded.

Goa|Salt Pans of Goa|Curca|rock salt | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

During the second phase, which takes place during the winter, preparations for harvesting begins.

Goa|Salt Pans of Goa|Curca|rock salt|Salt Pan worker|reflection | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

The third phase is the harvesting phase, which starts in the month of February and ends just before the monsoons.

Goa|Salt Pans of Goa|Curca|rock salt | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

This year, the yield of salt from the pans is less than usual due to the unseasonal rains during the last winter.

Goa|Salt Pans of Goa|Curca|rock salt|Salt Pan worker | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

Most Goans prefer to use this traditional form of salt for culinary purposes as it is free of chemical additives.

Goa|Salt Pans of Goa|Curca|rock salt|rock salt for sale | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

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