File picture of Olive Ridley turtles mating at Gahirmatha

Paradip, Nov. 23: The coast guard has launched Operation Oliver as part of its annual mission to ensure the safety of the Olive Ridley sea turtles during their breeding season.

In co-ordination with state forest department, the turtle conservation programme is on in full swing to keep a watch on illegal fishing along the turtle concentration zone, said coast guard deputy commandant (operations) J.V. Paul.

With round-the-clock vigil, the coast guard has been able to provide adequate protection to the endangered species.

Besides its fleet of ships, the coast guard has also pressed into service a Dornier aircraft for the operation. It is keeping a tab on illegal fishing inside Gahirmatha marine sanctuary.

Interactive sessions have been organised with marine fishermen to sensitise them on the pros and cons of the legal embargo on fishing during the Olive Ridley nesting season.

“The patrol exercise for surveillance on trespassing sea-worthy trawlers is in full swing because a large number of turtles die after being hit by the propeller of the trawlers. Besides, the animals also get entangled in fishing nets and are asphyxiated to death,” said Paul.

“The coast guard is always on alert to check trespassing vessels. The patrol vessels engaged by the forest and fisheries department often seek our assistance in the event of exigencies. The operation to save the turtles is being carried out in a co-ordinated manner,” he said.

A state-of-the-art coast guard ship is maintaining round-the-clock vigil along the coast. The operation will continue till the turtles finish their nesting.

An increased level of awareness has reduced fishing activities on the prohibited waters this year.

Only one trawler has so far been intercepted for illegal fishing since the ban came into effect within a 20km radius of Gahirmatha marine sanctuary from November 1.