Paradip: Sea fishing hubs in coastal pockets are now abuzz with activities after the government recently lifted the fishing ban.

Sea-going fishermen ventured into the sea with their fishing crafts early morning on Friday that were lying idle for the past two months.

The state government had enforced a two-month-long ban on marine fishing operations to ensure better breeding. The prohibitory orders which remained in force since April 15 were withdrawn on Thursday night.

Fishing vessels with the crew reappeared along the seawater marking the beginning of seasonal fishing trade.

"The ceremonial puja was performed at the fishing harbours before the commencement of sea voyage. People are hopeful of making up for the loss caused during the ban period. We are hard-working people. We are ready to fight adverse sea conditions to get better fish catch," said fisherman S. Gopal Raju from Sandhakuda village.

"The harbour is buzzing with activity. Merchants from Bengal have arrived to purchase fish. Seafood exporters of the state have opened their offices and fish collection centres to purchase fish and prawn from the fishermen<>," said trawler owners' association president Srikant Parida.