Odisha govt asks fishermen to return from sea due to cyclonic weather forecast

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Sunday directed all concerned deputy directors of fisheries and coastal districts fishery officers to ensure cent percent return of those fishing boats and vessels which had left for sea earlier by today immediately due to a cyclonic weather forecast.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rainfall in coastal districts of Odisha till October 30.

They have been asked to contact the boat/ trawler owners and make contact with the boat crew for their immediate return.

No fishing trawlers or boats are allowed to leave for fishing in the sea.

They have been asked to contact the Coastguard and request them to send back those vessels which may be plying in the sea for their safe return to base.

They have been asked to proceed to the coastal districts to oversee the implementation of the SOP and above directions without fail.

All necessary measures and steps have to be taken to safeguard the lives of fishermen and fishing crew due to the adverse weather forecast, said the Special Relief Commissioner’s office.

Director Fisheries have been told to closely oversee and ensure the implementation of the SoP and directions for achieving zero casualty.

Joint Special Relief Commissioner Pravat Ranjan Mohapatra on Sunday asked the collectors concerned to remain alert to tackle any eventuality.

“Collectors of Puri, Kendrapara, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Gajnam, Bhadrak and Balasore have been asked to remain alert in view of the possible heavy rainfall forecast. Special attention should be given to Ganjam and Gajapati districts, which were recently affected by cyclone ‘Titli’ and subsequent floods,” he said.