Bhubaneswar, 15 July (H.S.): The Odisha Fisheries Department on Wednesday issued a sea advisory directing fishermen along the state's coastline not to venture into the sea till July 17, citing rough weather conditions triggered by the prevailing rain-bearing system over the Bay of Bengal.

The department has instructed all fishermen currently at sea to return to the nearest shore immediately and suspend fishing operations until the advisory is lifted. The precautionary measure comes in view of forecasts of rough seas, strong winds and high waves along the Odisha coast.

According to the department, the prevailing weather conditions could pose a serious threat to fishing vessels and the safety of fishermen. Authorities have urged members of the fishing community to strictly adhere to the advisory and avoid taking any risks during the warning period.

As part of the safety measures, public announcements were made through public address systems at Kashia Jetty in Basudevpur and Chudamani Marine Jetty, asking fishermen not only to stay away from the sea but also to securely anchor their boats to prevent damage from adverse weather conditions.

Similar warnings have also been issued in Jaleswar, where local authorities have alerted fishermen about the deteriorating sea conditions and advised them to remain onshore until the weather improves.

The Fisheries Department said it is closely monitoring the evolving weather situation and has intensified awareness campaigns across coastal districts. Fishermen have been urged to stay updated through official weather advisories, cooperate with the administration and refrain from any sea-related activities until the advisory remains in force.

Officials said the advisory is intended to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure the safety of the fishing community during the period of adverse weather.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda