June 15th 2024.
In Kendrapara district, the buzz of activity among marine fishermen began early Saturday at various fishing jetties. It had been a long wait of six and a half months, but finally the marine fishery department lifted the ban on fishing within 20 km outside the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary. This was a welcome news for the fishermen who had been eagerly waiting to resume their livelihood.
The ban on fishing was imposed by the Odisha fishery department on November 1, 2023 in accordance with the provisions of Orissa Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1982, Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the Orissa Marine Fishing Rules, 1983. The main purpose of this ban was to protect the endangered Olive Ridley Sea turtles at the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, which is located 20 km off the coast of Bay of Bengal.
Furthermore, the marine fishery department also imposed a ban on fishing at sea from April 15, 2023 to June 14, 2024. This was done keeping in mind the impact of trawlers using fishing nets with small gaps on the breeding process of the fish. It was a necessary measure to ensure the sustainability of the marine ecosystem.
As the fishing season finally commenced, the owners of mechanized boats and trawlers in the coastal district gathered to worship their boats and the sea God, Varuna, on the auspicious Raja Sankranti. They then set out to sea with all their fish-catching equipment, as reported by the Secretary of Maa Ramachandi Boat Owner's Association, Tushar Sardar. It was a sight to behold as more than 25 to 30 fishing vessels ventured into the sea on the first day of lifting of the fishing ban in the Bay of Bengal.
The Marine Fishery Department has reminded all fishermen to ensure they have their registration certificate, license for their boats and trawlers, and a biometric identity card before entering the Bay of Bengal for fishing. This is a necessary step to regulate and monitor fishing activities in the area.
However, the fishermen have been advised not to enter the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary with their trawlers, as the forest department imposes a fishing ban in this area throughout the year. Any violation of this rule could lead to serious consequences, with the forest personnel having the authority to arrest and seize the boats of those caught trespassing, as stated by Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary Ranger Pradosh Moharana.
In conclusion, the lifting of the fishing ban has brought a sense of relief and excitement among the marine fishermen in Kendrapara district. It is now their responsibility to ensure that they follow all regulations and guidelines set by the authorities to protect the marine ecosystem and its inhabitants.
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