Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has stepped up precautionary measures to ensure the safety of fishermen along the state’s coast in view of the possibility of heavy rainfall and a cyclone under the influence of the impending Cyclonic Storm ‘Murasu’, officials said on Sunday.
The Directorate of Fisheries has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea along the Odisha coast from November 2 to 4. Those already out at sea have been directed to return to shore immediately.
Public announcements are being made through loudspeakers in coastal areas to sensitise fishermen about the impending weather conditions and the need to follow safety advisories.
All fishing boats and trawlers have also been instructed to remain securely anchored at the nearest fish landing centres or fishing harbours during the period.
District Fisheries Officers and Marine Fisheries Officers have sensitised local boat owners’ associations, trawler owners’ associations and marine fishermen’s cooperative societies about the possibility of heavy rainfall and the associated risks.
The department has also established 24-hour control rooms at all district offices to monitor the situation and coordinate precautionary measures. Officials have been directed to submit regular reports to the Directorate of Fisheries in Cuttack.
All departmental officers and staff have been instructed not to avail themselves of leave or leave their respective headquarters during this period to ensure uninterrupted monitoring and coordination.
Sagar Mitras and Assistant Fisheries Officers have also been deployed at various fishing harbours to conduct awareness activities and disseminate safety advisories among fishermen.
The Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department has accorded top priority to the safety of fishermen and directed officials to remain alert and take all necessary precautionary measures in view of the impending weather situation.
