Paradip, Nov 1: The Odisha government has implemented a seven-month fishing ban along its coastline starting from November 1 to protect the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles during their breeding and nesting season. The ban will remain in effect until May 31, with strict regulations in place to safeguard the species.

Under the directive, fishing is prohibited within a 20-kilometer radius of the coastline, including key river mouths like Rushikulya, Dhamra, and Devi, which are among the most significant mass nesting sites for the Olive Ridley turtles in Odisha. These regions are crucial for the turtles' nesting activities, and the ban aims to minimize human interference during this critical period.

While mechanized boats and trawlers are banned from operating in these protected areas, traditional fishermen using non-mechanized boats less than 8.5 meters in length are permitted to fish beyond the 20 km zone, as long as they stay outside the turtle protection areas.