Khallikote, Dec 5: Two trawlers were seized by the Forest Department of Khallikote for illegally fishing in a restricted area along the coast of Ganjam district. The seizure took place during a routine patrolling operation by the Forest Department in the Rishikulya mouth, a known breeding ground for marine life.

The trawlers were caught fishing in a no-fishing zone meant to protect the Olive Ridley turtles during their nesting and hatching season. The no-fishing regulation in this area has been in place from November 1 to May 31 each year to ensure the safety of the turtles as they lay their eggs along the beach.

The Forest Department, which has been monitoring the area closely during this critical period, found the two trawlers operating illegally in the restricted areas. Both trawlers have been seized, and the fishermen on board are being questioned. The marine life onboard the trawlers has also been detained, and legal action will be taken against the offenders as per the wildlife protection laws.

The Forest Department has been intensifying its patrolling efforts around the Rishikulya mouth region, particularly during the nesting season of the Olive Ridley turtles, which come ashore to lay eggs before returning to the sea. The area remains under strict surveillance to prevent illegal fishing activities, which could endanger the local marine ecosystem.