Fishing Ban Comes Into Force Off Odisha Coast to Protect Olive Ridley Turtles

A seasonal fishing ban has come into effect along parts of the Odisha coast from November 1 to protect the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles during their breeding and nesting season. The restriction will remain in force until May 31, 2027.

Under the ban, trawlers and mechanised fishing boats are prohibited from operating within 20 kilometres of the coastline in the designated restricted areas.

The state government has taken this measure to ensure the safe arrival, breeding and nesting of Olive Ridley turtles, which visit the Odisha coast in large numbers every year to lay their eggs.

Fishing Restricted from Keluni Muhana to Devi River Mouth

The stretch of coastline from Keluni Muhana to the mouth of the Devi River has been declared a prohibited zone for mechanised fishing activities. Trawlers and mechanised fishing boats will not be allowed to operate within 20 kilometres of the shore in this area during the restriction period.

The Fisheries and Forest Departments have been entrusted with ensuring strict enforcement of the ban. Authorities will take legal action against trawlers and mechanised fishing boats found violating the restrictions.

District Fisheries Officer Draupadi Majhi has provided information regarding the restrictions and their enforcement.

Focus on Olive Ridley Turtle Conservation

Olive Ridley turtles are among the world’s most remarkable marine turtle species. Every year, thousands of these turtles arrive along the Odisha coast during their breeding season to lay eggs.

Their protection is particularly important during this period, as fishing activities and the movement of mechanised boats can pose risks to the turtles.

The seasonal fishing ban aims to minimise these threats and provide a safer environment for the turtles to reach their nesting grounds and complete their reproductive cycle.

The measure is also significant for conserving marine biodiversity and maintaining the ecological balance of Odisha’s coastal waters.

Authorities have urged strict compliance with the restrictions to ensure the effective protection of Olive Ridley turtles throughout the breeding and nesting season.