Bhubaneswar, Apr 15: The Odisha government has officially enforced a 61-day ban on sea fishing along the state’s coast starting Tuesday, April 15, to ensure sustainable marine biodiversity and promote fish breeding cycles.

The directive, issued by the Fisheries Department through notification No. 4038, mandates all mechanised fishing activities to cease until June 14.

During this period, fishing vessels, including trawlers and large boats, are prohibited from venturing into the sea, though traditional wooden boats measuring under 8.5 meters are exempt from the restrictions.

As a result, around 40,000 to 50,000 fishermen face economic uncertainty. While boat owners plan maintenance activities, workers depending on daily fishing express concerns over their livelihoods.

The government has emphasised that this ban is necessary to allow fish populations to regenerate, ensuring long-term ecological balance and stable seafood supply.

Coastal fisheries officers in Paradip, Ganjam, Kujang, Balasore, and Puri have been instructed to strictly enforce regulations.

With fishing activities halted, seafood availability in local markets is expected to decline, impacting businesses and consumers alike. Officials urge compliance, stressing that these measures contribute to marine sustainability and improved fishing yields in the future.

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