Paradip, Sept. 23 (UDN): Rough sea conditions along the Odisha coast have forced 28 fishing trawlers carrying 248 fishermen from Andhra Pradesh to seek refuge at Paradip Port as the weather system over the Bay of Bengal intensifies.
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The trawlers were unable to safely return to their home state amid deteriorating sea conditions. The Paradip Port Authority has allowed the vessels to take shelter inside the harbour as a precautionary measure.
The fishermen and their boats have been accommodated at the EQ-1 berth, where they will remain until conditions at sea improve.
Ship Movement Restricted
With the sea remaining rough, Signal No. 3 continues to be in force at Paradip Port.
As part of the precautionary measures, restrictions have been placed on the entry of ships into the harbour. Vessels currently engaged in cargo-handling operations have been directed to complete their work and move to a safe location at sea.
Port authorities have also begun arrangements to move ships out of the harbour in view of the prevailing weather conditions.
Port Authorities Keep Watch
Officials are maintaining close surveillance of the weather and sea conditions and are coordinating safety measures in response to updates from the meteorological authorities.
Further decisions regarding vessel movement and other port operations will be taken depending on the intensity and movement of the weather system.
The sheltering of the Andhra fishing boats comes as a Deep Depression over the Bay of Bengal approaches the north Andhra Pradesh–south Odisha coast, with the India Meteorological Department forecasting heavy rain and strong winds in parts of the region.
For the fishermen taking shelter at Paradip, the immediate priority remains safety until the sea conditions become favourable for their return journey.
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