Fishing Activities Resume in Kendrapara After Long Ban: What You Need to Know

After a six-and-a-half-month hiatus, marine fishermen in Kendrapara district have resumed their fishing activities following the lifting of the annual fishing ban. This ban, aimed at protecting the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles, was enforced under various regulations. Fishermen performed traditional rituals before setting sail, and while the general ban has been lifted, strict regulations remain in place regarding the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary. Learn more about the fishing season's reopening and the associated guidelines.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 18, 2025, 10:00 IST

Fishing Resumes in Kendrapara District

In Kendrapara, marine fishermen have resumed their fishing operations after a hiatus of six and a half months, following the end of the annual fishing ban around the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary.

The Odisha Marine Fisheries department had enforced this ban from November 1, 2024, to May 30, 2025, in line with the Orissa Marine Fishing Regulation Act (OMFRA) of 1982.

Additionally, a second ban was implemented from April 15, 2024, to June 14, 2025, under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, the OMFRA, and the Orissa Marine Fishing Rules of 1983.

These regulations were established to safeguard the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles, which nest in significant numbers at Gahirmatha.

The ban was primarily aimed at conservation, as trawlers utilizing fine-mesh nets could inadvertently capture turtle eggs and juvenile fish, disrupting their breeding cycles and threatening fish populations.

With the fishing season now open, boat owners and trawler operators performed traditional rituals, honoring their vessels and the sea deity ‘Baruna’ before heading out.

Tushar Sardar, a representative of the Maa Ramchandi Boat Owners’ Association in Kharanashi, noted, “On the first day, over 25 to 30 boats set sail.”

The Marine Fisheries department has mandated that fishermen possess valid registration certificates and licenses for their boats or trawlers before venturing into the sea. They must also carry their biometric marine fishery identity cards, as per official guidelines.

While the general fishing ban has been lifted, fishermen are strictly prohibited from entering the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary with trawlers. The Forest department maintains a year-round fishing ban within the sanctuary's boundaries.

Kapilendra Pradhan, Ranger of the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, cautioned, “Any trespassing or fishing within the sanctuary will result in severe penalties. Forest personnel will arrest violators and confiscate their boats.”