Operation Olivia in Odisha: The Indian Coast Guard has started an extensive mission, called ‘Operation Olivia’, to protect the endangered Olive Ridley Turtles during their critical nesting season in Paradip, Odisha. The operation aims to secure the coastal waters where these turtles lay their eggs, ensuring their safety against potential threats, including illegal fishing practices and human interference. This year more than 6.5 lakh Olive Ridley Turtles have arrived at Rushikulya in Odisha for mass nesting.
Advanced Technology Used for Surveillance
With the Olive Ridley Turtle population facing increasing threats, the Coast Guard has implemented a multi-faceted strategy to monitor and protect the nesting areas. This operation utilizes a combination of advanced technologies and resources, including drones, fast patrol vessels, interceptor crafts, and Dornier aircraft for continuous surveillance. The regular monitoring ensures that the turtle’s natural nesting zones remain undisturbed by illegal activities.
Since the initiation of the mission, over 138 days, the Coast Guard has deployed 29 vessels and Dornier aircraft, racking up around 65 hours of aerial surveillance. These efforts aim to deter unlawful fishing practices under the Orissa Marine Fisheries Act, which governs the safety of marine life, particularly in relation to turtle protection. To ensure safe nesting and avoid animal predation a 5 km stretch on sea coast has been fenced and being watched by field foresters.
Why ‘Operation Olivia’ In Important?
An important aspect of ‘Operation Olivia’ is its focus on checking fishing boats for adherence to strict safety protocols, including the mandatory installation of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs). These devices play a crucial role in safeguarding turtles by allowing them to escape from fishing nets, preventing unnecessary entanglements. As a result, many Olive Ridley Turtles have been successfully rescued from drifting nets.
The initiative is not only a strict enforcement operation but also a collaborative effort that involves Odisha’s state fisheries and forest departments. Together, they are working to educate local fishing communities on the importance of turtle conservation while also conducting intensified patrols in restricted fishing zones.
‘Operation Olivia’ is significantly contributing to the protection of Olive Ridley turtles. The project underscores the importance of coordinated efforts in preserving the fragile marine ecosystem of Odisha’s coast.
