Paradip, April 13: To support fish breeding during the spawning season, authorities have imposed a ban on fishing activities along the Odisha coast from April 15 to June 14. The Marine Fisheries Department has also launched awareness drives among fishermen in Paradip fishing harbour and nearby coastal areas.

As per the directive issued by the Directorate of Fisheries, Odisha, fishing by mechanized boats and trawlers has been strictly prohibited under the Odisha Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1982. The move aims to prevent damage to fish eggs and juveniles during the critical breeding period.

In Paradip fishing harbour alone, 635 trawlers and 152 mechanized boats will remain idle during the two-month restriction. The ban is expected to impact around 50,000 fishermen who depend on marine fishing for their livelihood. However, small boats up to 8.5 metres have been allowed to operate in limited areas.

The restriction applies up to 12 nautical miles from the coastline to ensure the protection and regeneration of nearly 295 marine fish species. Officials said the measure is crucial to conserve declining fish populations.

Despite the economic impact, many fishermen have welcomed the ban, treating it as a seasonal break. They plan to use this period for repairing boats and preparing for the next fishing cycle.

Meanwhile, the Odisha Marine Fish Producers’ Association has demanded compensation for affected fishermen. Association General Secretary Aravinda Swain urged the government to provide financial support during the ban period. Assistant Marine Fisheries Officer of Paradip, Tapan Kumar Mohapatra, said the matter would be examined.