Puri, Sept 23: A sudden deterioration in weather conditions has triggered panic among fishermen in Chilika Lake, with strong winds and heavy rain forcing hundreds of them to return to the shore for safety.
Several fishing boats were seen lined up along the Daya River near Jagulaipadara in Kanas block of Puri district after more than 200 fishermen from Jagulaipadara, Nuagaon and nearby areas returned from Chilika amid worsening weather conditions.
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According to local sources, the fishermen were out fishing in the lake when the weather suddenly turned rough. With conditions becoming increasingly dangerous, they hurried back to the shore in their boats. In the process, many were forced to leave behind fishing nets worth thousands of rupees in the middle of the lake.
Fishermen allege lack of timely warning
The fishermen have expressed strong resentment over what they allege was a lack of timely communication from the administration regarding the adverse weather.
They claimed that no warning about the developing weather conditions, including any possible low-pressure system or cyclone-related threat, had reached them through official channels.
Also Read: Deep depression triggers heavy rain, districts step up preparedness
According to the fishermen, they learned about the worsening weather mainly through phone calls from family members and updates received on their mobile phones. With little time to react, they immediately began their return journey to the shore to protect their lives.
Over 100 fishermen still in Chilika
Meanwhile, fishermen who have returned to the shore claim that more than 100 fishermen may still be stranded in the middle of Chilika Lake.
Families are reportedly worried as they are unable to establish proper communication with those still out on the lake. Local residents have urged the authorities to launch an immediate rescue operation and ensure the safety of the fishermen who remain in Chilika.
The situation has also raised concerns over the need for timely dissemination of official weather warnings to fishing communities operating in the lake.
Also Read: Depression likely to Cross Ganjam coast on September 23; rainfall expected across Odisha
