Conflict between sea-going fishermen from Andhra Pradesh and Odisha came to a head recently when some fishing vessels from Vishakhapatnam fishing harbour were prevented from berthing at Paradip harbour temporarily by local trawl operators.
Though the state marine fisheries department managed to broker a temporary truce between marine fishermen of both states, charges and counter-charges continue to fly thick and fast over acts of trespass into respective fishing zones.
Andhra Pradesh trawl operators argued the vessels were forced to venture into Odisha coastal waters because of rough sea condition.
Orissa Marine fishing Regulation Act (OMFRA), 1982 specifies 12 nautical miles off the sea coast as exclusive preserve of local fishermen for fishing activity.
The intrusion has led to over-exploitation and loss of income for fishermen of Odisha, alleged traditional marine fish workers' association, general secretary, Narayan Haldar.
Following the dispute Representatives of sea fishermen organisations were summoned to Paradip recently. After a dialogue the dispute was resolved, an official said.
"The A P representatives admitted that there were stray cases of intrusion in Odisha sea waters. It was unanimously decided to allow berthing of AP vessels in distress condition arising out of stormy weather," said the additional marine fisheries officer, Paradip, Ranjit Dash.
