Welcoming Olive Ridleys, 7-Month Fishing Ban at 3 River Mouths in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s fisheries department has imposed a seven-month fishing ban at three river mouths of the state to protect Olive ridley turtles during their mating, nesting and hatching period.

The three river mouths, where fishing activities have been restricted for the arrival of Olive ridleys for nesting are the Dhamra river mouth, Devi river mouth and Rushikulya river mouth. This fishing ban starting from November 1 will remain in force till May 31, 2024.

As per the government notification, all forms of fishing activities are strictly prohibited within a 20-kilometer radius from the coast as well as buffer zones close to these three river mouths.

To ensure the enactment of the fishing ban, the fisheries department will patrol these areas. It will also organize periodic awareness camps at villages near the river mouths involving key stakeholders, including Forest and Marine Police officials.