Kendrapara: With the prohibition imposed by the state government lifted from Wednesday, sea fishing hubs in Paradip and Kendrapara areas are abuzz with hectic activities.
After two-month-long break, sea-going fishermen began venturing into deep sea with their fishing craft.
In a move to ensure safe and hassle-free breeding of sea fish, the state government had earlier clamped the two-month prohibition on marine fishing operations.
The prohibitory orders which remained in force from 15 April were lifted from Tuesday midnight. The fishing prohibition in view of the breeding season of fish earlier lasted 45 days. However, it was extended to 60 days this year as per order by the Union agriculture ministry. The 60-day ban was enforced simultaneously in West Bengal, Telengana and Andhra Pradesh on the east coast, said officials.
Fishing vessels carrying the crews have reappeared along seawater, marking the start of the seasonal fishing trade.
“All is set for bumper fishing season. Everybody is optimistic of making up the loss due to the fishing ban. We are working hard to get higher fish catch,” said a seagoing fisherman, Sukumar Haldar.
The annual ban was enforced for larger interest of those living on fishing activity. The restriction is imposed every year to allow breeding and multiplication of fish population. It is aimed at greater interest for fishermen as it leads to larger yield. It remained in force from April 15 till June 14, said additional fisheries officer, Bharat Bhusan Sahoo.
Bereft of alternative income sources, fish workers and vendors were left to fend for themselves during these days of ban, said fishermen’s union spokesman, Tushar Sardar.
The fishing harbour at Paradip is now buzzing with activities. Fish merchants from neighbouring West Bengal have already arrived in Paradip to purchase fish from the fishermen.
Similarly, seafood exporters of the state have opened their offices and collection centres to purchase fish and prawn from the fishermen, said the president of trawler owners’ association of Paradip, Srikant Parida. PNN