Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen) April 15: The State government has enforced a two-month comprehensive ban on fishing across the entire coastline of Odisha, effective immediately from April 15 to June 14, totaling 61 days. This directive aims at conserving and efficiently managing fisheries resources while ensuring sea safety.
In a communication addressed to the Additional Fisheries Officer (Marine) of Ganjam, Kujanga, Balasore, Puri, and the District Fisheries Officer (B&T), Balugaon, the Directorate of Fisheries, Odisha, mandated the ban on all fishing vessels except traditional crafts measuring up to 8.5 meters, regardless of engine presence.
Citing authority vested in Clause (a) of sub-section (1) of Section 4 of the Orissa Marine Fishing Regulation Act-1982 (Odisha Act of 1982), and considering specified matters therein, the State Government formally prohibits fishing within territorial waters along the entire Odisha coastline during the stipulated period. The ban is intended to safeguard fisheries resources and enhance sea safety measures.
The directive emphasizes strict adherence to the ban by all stakeholders and underscores the importance of awareness among marine fishers to ensure compliance. The government urges meticulous observance of the notification from April 15 to June 14, 2024, encompassing 61 days, to uphold the uniform ban across Odisha’s coastline.
