TV
In preparation for scheduled missile tests by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Odisha Fisheries Department has announced a two-day ban on marine fishing across four coastal districts on July 17 and 18, citing safety concerns for fisherfolk and vessels operating in the Bay of Bengal.
Missile Tests to be Conducted from Chandipur and Kalam Island
According to The New Indian Express, the ban comes in view of strategic missile launches planned from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Balasore and Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island in Bhadrak.
Notably, these sites are frequently used for India’s defence trials, and civilian movement near the sea is routinely restricted during such high-stakes exercises.
The temporary restriction will apply to the districts of Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, and Jagatsinghpur, all of which border the Bay of Bengal and have large active marine fishing communities.
Fisheries Department Launches Awareness and Monitoring Campaign
Authorities have launched an awareness campaign to ensure compliance with the order. Loudspeaker announcements are being used in coastal villages, and marine fishermen have been directed to return to shore by July 16.
The Fisheries Department, in coordination with local officials, has stationed field staff at key harbours and jetties.
Surveillance teams have also been activated to monitor vessel movements and enforce the temporary restrictions. Officials have warned that any unauthorised entry into the sea during the restricted window will lead to disciplinary action under maritime and coastal safety protocols.
Although such launches are controlled and fall within designated safety corridors, even minor lapses could endanger lives or damage vessels operating in deep waters.
It is worth mentioning that missile testing in this region is a regular feature of DRDO’s strategic schedule. The fisheries ban is a preventive safety measure, previously employed during similar exercises.
