BHUBANESWAR: Fish and seafood prices have witnessed a sharp increase across Odisha as the annual fishing ban imposed during the breeding season continues to restrict marine fishing activities along the state’s coastline.
The prohibition, enforced every year from April 15 to June 14, is aimed at protecting fish breeding and ensuring sustainable fish production in the long term. Under the restrictions, mechanised fishing vessels and trawlers are prohibited from venturing into the sea, while only traditional fishermen using country boats are permitted limited fishing operations.
Fishermen’s associations said the reduction in marine catch has significantly affected market supply, leading to a substantial rise in seafood prices. In several parts of the state, the prices of popular fish varieties have reportedly increased by nearly 100 per cent compared to normal market rates.
Major fish landing centres in coastal districts including Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Ganjam and Puri have witnessed reduced activity due to the seasonal restrictions, resulting in lower availability of fresh marine fish in local markets.
Traders and consumers have expressed concerns that prices may continue to rise until the ban is lifted in mid-June and normal fishing operations resume.
In addition to the breeding-season prohibition, separate fishing restrictions remain in force in parts of the Kendrapara coast to protect the annual migration and nesting of the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtle. These conservation measures are aimed at safeguarding one of the world’s largest nesting populations of the species along Odisha’s coastline.
Officials maintain that while the temporary restrictions may affect market supply in the short term, they are essential for sustaining marine biodiversity and ensuring healthy fish stocks for future generations.
