​​​Kendrapara, Oct 31: The Odisha government has imposed a fishing ban in the prohibited zone of the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary from November 1, 2026, to May 31, 2027, in view of the annual breeding season of Olive Ridley sea turtles.

The restriction covers an area extending 20 km into the sea from the coastline, between the Dhamra and Mahanadi river mouths. Fishing activities have been completely prohibited within the designated sanctuary zone during this period.

Every year, lakhs of Olive Ridley turtles travel thousands of miles across the sea from distant regions, including Sri Lanka, the Pacific Ocean and Costa Rica, to reach Gahirmatha for mass nesting. They mainly lay eggs at Nasi, Agarnasi, Ekakula, Babubali, Chinchiri river mouth and Satabhaya along the Gahirmatha coast.

The arrival of Olive Ridley turtles also plays an important role in maintaining marine ecological balance. Jellyfish feed on fish larvae, while Olive Ridley turtles consume jellyfish, thereby helping improve fish survival and maintain fish populations.

During the breeding season, fish are found in abundance in and around Gahirmatha, attracting fishing trawlers into the prohibited zone. Such illegal fishing activities pose a serious threat to the turtles, with many losing their lives after getting entangled in fishing nets.

To prevent such incidents, the fishing ban is strictly enforced from the first week of November until the turtles complete their nesting activities and return to the sea by May 31.

Meanwhile, the Forest Department is strengthening security arrangements for the protection of Olive Ridley turtles this season. Two protection camps are being set up at Madeli river mouth and Babubali.

The department has also made arrangements for boat patrolling. The Forest Department's Olivia boat will be deployed for surveillance, while Dhamra Port will provide one additional boat. Another boat will be hired by the department, officials said.