Diesel Crisis Leaves 100+ Fishermen Stranded in Chilika

Bhubaneswar, May 16: A severe diesel shortage has left more than 100 fishermen stranded in Chilika Lake, disrupting livelihoods and sparking concern among families.

Nearly 40 boats from the Kanasa region ran out of fuel mid‑operation and remain anchored near small islands inside the lagoon.

Fishermen have taken temporary refuge on these islands, unable to return home.

Additional boats are stuck near the Daya river mouth, about eight kilometres from Jagulaipada in Kanasa.

The crisis has halted fishing activities, creating panic among communities dependent on the lake. Families of the stranded fishermen are increasingly anxious as the situation drags on.

Local fishermen have appealed to authorities for urgent intervention to restore fuel supply and prevent further distress.

The shortage has highlighted the vulnerability of fishing communities in Chilika, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, where thousands rely on daily operations for sustenance.