Mass Olive Ridley Deaths Linked to Illegal Trawling in Astarang

Astarang (Puri): The endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles are facing a severe threat along the Puri coastline, with numerous carcasses washing ashore near the Devi River mouth in Astarang. The disturbing incident has raised serious concerns among locals, wildlife volunteers, and conservationists.

According to reports, the deaths are linked to the suspected movement of trawlers inside prohibited fishing zones—areas strictly off-limits during the turtles’ annual mating season. Despite regulations, illegal fishing activity continues unchecked, putting the vulnerable species at greater risk.

The Olive Ridleys have just entered their peak mating season off the Puri coast. As per wildlife protection rules, trawlers are required to remain at least 20 km from the shore, while motorboats must stay beyond 5 km. However, blatant violations have been reported, threatening the fragile marine ecosystem.

Locals say carcasses are now floating in large numbers at the river mouth, causing heavy pollution.

“The carcasses of Olive Ridleys are found floating in the river, leaving the entire atmosphere polluted. Forest officials are burying the carcasses under the soil,” a resident said.

Recently, forest officials seized two trawlers and arrested eight crew members for illegal fishing near Konark. But wildlife volunteers argue that enforcement efforts are still inadequate.

“Patrolling is still insufficient, which is why illegal fishing continues inside prohibited areas,” said volunteer Jayant Kumar Nayak.

With the turtles’ mating process underway, conservationists warn that the Devi River mouth is rapidly turning into a “death trap” for Olive Ridleys. They urge authorities to intensify patrolling and implement stricter monitoring before more damage is done to the already vulnerable species.