Berhampur, Jul 8: Allegations of large-scale illegal fishing by trawlers from neighbouring Andhra Pradesh have resurfaced along Odisha's southern coastline, with local fishermen claiming that hundreds of Andhra-based vessels are regularly entering Odisha's territorial waters and depleting marine resources.

The issue comes amid the long-standing inter-state boundary disputes between Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, including the Kotia border row. Local fishing communities now allege that the encroachment has extended from land to the sea, posing a serious threat to the livelihoods of thousands of fishermen in Ganjam district.

According to fishermen from Sonapur, Aryapalli, Gopalpur and nearby coastal villages, hundreds of trawlers from Andhra Pradesh's Srikakulam, Kakinada and Visakhapatnam reportedly cross into Odisha's waters every day to catch fish using high-powered engines and prohibited fishing nets. They allege that these vessels often operate deep inside Odisha's maritime zone, extending as far as Puri and Paradip.

The fishermen further claimed that the number of Andhra trawlers increases whenever the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) issue advisories asking Odisha fishermen to stay away from the sea due to rough weather. While local fishermen comply with the restrictions for their safety, they allege that Andhra trawlers continue fishing in Odisha waters without interruption.

Ganjam district has 27 marine fishing villages, where thousands of families depend entirely on fishing for their livelihood. Fishermen say the alleged illegal fishing by Andhra trawlers has significantly affected their income, as large quantities of fish are harvested before local boats can venture into the sea.

Local fishermen have demanded that the Odisha government intensify marine patrolling, strictly monitor the state's maritime boundary and seize boats, fishing nets and catches of any vessel found fishing illegally inside Odisha waters. They also questioned why action was allegedly not being taken despite repeated complaints to the district administration and state authorities.

Some Andhra fishermen reportedly admitted that they had been fishing in waters off Ganjam, Puri and other parts of Odisha over the past several days. They claimed they had taken shelter at Gopalpur and Paradip due to rough sea conditions caused by the prevailing low-pressure system.

The allegations have once again brought the issue of maritime boundary enforcement into focus, with local fishing communities urging the state government to adopt a stronger stand to protect Odisha's marine resources and the livelihoods of its coastal fishermen.

Authorities have not yet issued an official response to the allegations.