Samikhsya Bureau
Bhubaneswar: In its continued effort to protect the nests of the unique and highly endangered species of Olive Ridley sea turtles during its breeding season, Odisha Government has clamped a ban on fishing at three sensitive sites.
As per the ban, fishing has been banned over 20-kilometre stretch from the mouths of Dhamara, Devi and Rushikulya rivers.
The decision on ban was taken at high level empowered committee meeting chaired by Additional Chief Secretary Mona Sharma.
Olive Ridley sea turtles arrive at Gahirmatha beach in Kendrapara, Devi river mouth in Puri and Rushikulya river mouth in Ganjam district every year during winter for mass nesting and breeding.
The ban would remain effective from November 1 to May 31 next under the Odisha Marine Fishing Regulation act, 1982 and Wildlife Protection act, 1972.
Use of motor boats, trawlers and mechanised fishing boats are prohibited along the stretch during the period.
The Government has, however, exempted traditional fishing methods from the ban.
About 10,666 fishermen families, who will be affected by the ban, will be offered a monthly financial assistance of Rs. 7,500 each.
The Government has set up 66 patrolling camps that includes 56 on-shore and five off-shore camps, will keep a strict vigil on any possible illegal fishing activities during the ban period.
Locals and Non-Government Organisations are also being involved in effective implementation of the ban.
The State Government’s pioneering initiatives for conservation and breeding of the highly endangered species has won Odisha a special global recognition.
While 4.51 lakh Olive Ridleys were reported to have come for breeding during 2018-19, a record number of 7.30 lakh breeding happened during the next financial year.
