Fishermen net giant 2-ton stingray off Odisha’s Jaleswar coast, huge crowd gathers on shore

In a deep-sea catch, fishermen operating off the Digha mouth near Jaleswar hauled in a gigantic giant stingray weighing an estimated two tonnes, creating waves of excitement among locals, tourists, and seafood traders.

The mammoth fish, prized for its medicinal and export value, was brought ashore and taken directly to the Digha auction centre, where curious crowds jostled for a glimpse.

According to the fishermen, the catch occurred during a routine deep-sea expedition. While hauling in their nets, the crew realised they had ensnared something exceptionally large. It took coordinated effort and considerable time to bring the massive fish on board.

Fish high valuable, say fisherfolk

The stingray is in high demand in both domestic and international markets. Its swim bladder (maw) and other parts are used in pharmaceutical preparations, particularly in making collagen-rich medicinal products with anti-ageing and therapeutic properties.

Fisheries traders explained that the fish’s internal parts, especially the swim bladder, are among the most expensive by-products in the seafood industry, used for life-saving medicines, supplements, and high-end culinary preparations abroad.

The skin and cartilage also have applications in specialised industries, and due to strong overseas demand, such catches are often acquired by export firms from Kolkata even before they reach the local retail market.

Word of the massive catch spread quickly, drawing scores of onlookers to the jetty and auction centre.

Earlier catches also in spotlight

In September last year, a group of lucky fishermen sold two giant croakers (Telia Sila) weighing a combined 199 kilograms for an astonishing Rs 15 lakh. The same expedition had brought in a total of nine such fish, all of which fetched high prices.

Earlier in 2023, a group of fishermen from Bhograi, Balasore, netted a massive shark weighing around 200 kilograms, which was auctioned for Rs 29,000 and attracted large crowds at the market. In November 2022, fishermen caught another giant stingray weighing 500 kilograms, which was sold for Rs 20,000 to a Kolkata firm.

(OTV does not condone animal abuse in any form. The article reports on commercial fishing by licenced fishermen. In every case, environmental responsibility must first be upheld)