How Did Operation Olivia Save 6.98 Lakh Ridley Turtles?

New Delhi, May 19 (NationPress) In a significant advancement for marine conservation, the Indian Coast Guard’s (ICG) annual campaign ‘Operation Olivia’ has successfully safeguarded a remarkable total of over 6.98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles that nested at the Rushikulya river mouth in Odisha during February 2025, an official announced on Monday.

Taking place annually from November to May, Operation Olivia serves as a pivotal initiative of the ICG designed to ensure the safety of nesting sites for Olive Ridley turtles, particularly at Gahirmatha Beach and adjacent coastal regions of Odisha, which witness the arrival of more than 800,000 turtles each year.

The extraordinary mass nesting at the Rushikulya river mouth reflects the ICG’s persistent commitment to protecting this endangered species through diligent patrolling, aerial surveillance, and engaging with local communities.

Since the launch of Operation Olivia, the ICG has conducted over 5,387 surface patrol sorties and 1,768 aerial surveillance missions, effectively minimizing threats such as illegal fishing and habitat destruction.

During this period, 366 boats involved in illegal fishing activities were apprehended, underscoring the ICG's robust enforcement actions in preserving marine life. In addition to surveillance, the ICG has partnered with local fishing communities to promote the use of Turtle Excluder Devices and has collaborated with NGOs through formal MoUs to foster sustainable fishing practices and conservation education.

Previously, a suspicious unidentified vessel sighted about 22 nautical miles off the Jafrabad coast in Gujarat prompted an elevated maritime security alert along the West coast on Sunday, initiating an extensive aerial and naval search operation involving the ICG, Navy, and marine police.

The alert was first triggered by observant fishermen who noticed the unfamiliar boat behaving strangely. They communicated this to their boat captain, who subsequently informed the Jafrabad Boat Association. The association quickly relayed the matter to the ICG.

In response, the Coast Guard deployed a helicopter for investigation. Preliminary reports indicated that the boat, which seemed to be heading towards Daman, changed course and attempted to escape as the aerial team approached for inspection.

Eyewitness accounts, including those from fishermen, reported individuals aboard the vessel, raising further concerns. Kanaiyalal Solanki, president of the Jafrabad Boat Association, confirmed that local fishermen were supporting authorities in the search and maintaining heightened vigilance at sea.