Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Fisheries Directorate has stepped up precautionary measures in coastal areas in view of the forecast of heavy rainfall, advising fishermen not to venture into the sea till September 25.
Fishermen already at sea have been asked to return to shore immediately, while fishing boats and trawlers have been directed to remain securely moored at the nearest fish landing centres or fishing harbours.
Public announcements are being made through mikes in coastal areas to alert fishermen about the weather conditions.
District Fisheries Officers and Marine Fisheries Officers have sensitised boat owners’ and trawler owners’ associations as well as marine fishermen cooperative societies about the precautionary measures.
The department has opened 24-hour control rooms at all district offices and instructed officials to maintain regular communication with the Directorate of Fisheries in Kataka and submit situation reports.
Officials and employees of the department have been directed not to proceed on leave or leave their headquarters during the period.
Sagar Mitras and Assistant Fisheries Officers have also been deployed at various harbours to create awareness among fishermen.
The Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department said the safety of fishermen remains its priority amid the prevailing weather conditions.
