Seven Fishermen Nabbed for Illegal Fishing in Gahiramatha Sanctuary

Kendrapara, Odisha: In a major enforcement drive, forest officials arrested seven fishermen for illegal fishing inside the Gahiramatha Marine Sanctuary, one of the world’s largest nesting grounds for endangered olive ridley turtles.

The raid was carried out by personnel from the Ekakula forest section, who seized four fishing nets, a GPS device, a VHF communication set, and nearly 50 kilograms of fish.

Authorities confirmed that the arrests were made under provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, which prohibits fishing activities in the sanctuary during the turtle nesting and breeding season.

Forest officials emphasised that such violations pose a serious threat to marine biodiversity and reiterated their zero-tolerance policy against illegal fishing.

Surveillance and patrolling have been intensified to safeguard the fragile ecosystem and ensure the protection of olive ridley turtles.

The arrested fishermen are expected to face legal proceedings, with officials warning that strict action will continue against those attempting to exploit the sanctuary’s resources.