- The two-month fishing ban in Odisha has led to seafood price hikes of 30-50%.
- Popular fish varieties like pomfret and bhekti have become significantly costlier.
- Vendors are reportedly cashing in on stored stocks, increasing market prices.
The annual fishing ban in Odisha, aimed at protecting marine breeding grounds, has led to a notable increase in seafood prices across Kendrapara and nearby areas.
Beyond Kendrapara, the price surge has extended to other coastal districts, including Jagatsinghpur and Visakhapatnam. Vendors are reportedly taking advantage of cold-stored stocks, leading to accusations of price manipulation.
Odisha Fishing Ban Sparks Seafood Price Surge
The Odisha Marine Fishing Regulation Act of 1982 mandates a two-month fishing ban from April 15 to June 15, aimed at conserving marine species during their breeding season. This year, the ban has triggered a substantial price surge in seafood across Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, and Visakhapatnam. Pomfret, which typically sells for Rs 300 per kg, now costs Rs 450, while bhekti has jumped from Rs 250 to Rs 400.
In fishing markets like Paradip and Jamboo, the ban has brought activities to a standstill, leaving vendors dependent on cold-stored stocks. Some are allegedly inflating prices to profit from limited supply, pushing seafood beyond the reach of average consumers. Additionally, with the Raja festival approaching, demand is expected to increase, potentially exacerbating the price spike.
Fish vendors have noted a drop in customer turnout as prices soar. “Bhekti has become a luxury item,” said Swadhin Dash, a retired bank employee from Kendrapara. “Earlier, it was part of our regular diet; now, it’s unaffordable for many families.” The impact of the ban underscores the broader challenge of balancing marine conservation with local livelihoods.
Meanwhile, authorities are vigilant against illegal fishing practices during the ban. “We are closely monitoring fishing activities to prevent violations,” stated Bijay Kar, assistant fisheries officer in Paradip. He emphasized that the ban is essential for sustaining fish populations, despite the short-term economic strain on vendors and consumers alike.
The ongoing fishing ban in Odisha, aimed at protecting marine breeding grounds, has not only disrupted fishing activities but also driven up seafood prices, impacting both vendors and consumers ahead of the Raja festival.
“The price rise was expected due to reduced fishing activities during the ban period,” said Paresh Mandal, a fish vendor at Paradip fishing market.
