Odisha News / 24 Fishermen Held for Illegal Entry into Chilika Nalaban Sanctuary

Puri, July 23: In a major enforcement drive, the Forest Department on Thursday apprehended 24 fishermen for illegally entering the restricted Nalaban bird sanctuary area of Chilika Lake in Odisha and engaging in unlawful fishing activities.

Officials said the arrests were made during routine patrolling by the Balugaon forest range team. The fishermen, hailing from Chandraput (11) and Balipatpur (13) villages, were caught red-handed while fishing inside the protected zone.

#Puri | 24 fishermen arrested for illegal fishing in prohibited Chilika Nalabana zone.
Balugaon Forest Range patrolling team caught the fishermen illegally entering and fishing in the protected area.

According to the Balugaon DFO, 11 individuals from Chandraput village and 13… pic.twitter.com/GxMf0iFLjm

— Argus News (@ArgusNews_in) July 23, 2026

Forest personnel seized boats, nets, and other fishing equipment used in the illegal activity. The arrested individuals were subsequently produced in court after being taken into custody.

Balugaon Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) confirmed the operation and stated that strict monitoring is being carried out to prevent encroachment and illegal fishing in the sanctuary, which is a critical habitat for migratory birds.

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The Nalaban area of Chilika Lake is designated as a no-entry zone to protect its fragile ecosystem and biodiversity. Authorities emphasized that illegal fishing not only violates conservation laws but also threatens the ecological balance of Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon.

The incident has sparked concern among conservationists and the local community, with the Forest Department reiterating its commitment to safeguarding Chilika’s biodiversity. Officials said such enforcement actions are necessary to deter repeated violations and ensure long-term protection of the sanctuary.