In a vigilant operation to safeguard the ecologically sensitive Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, the forest department’s patrolling team seized a fishing trawler and arrested eight fishermen caught engaging in illegal fishing activities within the prohibited zone.
The incident occurred near Barunei Mouth in the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, a critical habitat known as the world’s largest rookery for endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles. The trawler, named **Ma Arnapurna-85**, was intercepted during a routine deep-sea patrol.
The arrested fishermen have been identified as Shankar Mandal, Dibakar Das, Jada Mallik, Jagabandhu Das, Pradeep Das, Shiva Das, Bhasali Mallik, and Chandan Mahanti. They were produced in court after a case was registered under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Authorities confiscated significant equipment and catch from the trawler, including one GPS device, two VHF radios, nine trawling nets, and approximately 4.70 quintals of fish.
The operation was led by Gahirmatha Ranger Kapilendra Pradhan and Forester Mahanta Kumar Mallik, under the directions of Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Manas Kumar Das. The team spotted the trawler illegally operating in restricted waters during their patrol.
Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary remains a no-fishing zone year-round to protect marine wildlife, particularly during the nesting season of Olive Ridley turtles. Such enforcement actions are crucial to prevent entanglement in nets and propeller strikes that threaten these vulnerable species.
The forest department has reiterated its commitment to intensifying patrols to deter illegal fishing and preserve this vital biodiversity hotspot.
