Kendrapada: Seafood priceshave surged significantly in the coastal districts of Kendrapada and Jagatsinghpur following the implementation of a two-month fishing ban aimed at protecting breeding marine life.The annual ban, enforced from April to June 15 under the Odisha Marine Fishing Regulation Act of 1982, has led to price increases ranging from 30% to 60% across various fish varieties. Popular fish like pomfret, which typically sells for Rs 300 per kilogram, is now being sold for Rs 450, while vetki has jumped from Rs 250 to Rs 400 per kilogram.”The price rise was expected due to reduced fishing activities during the ban period,” said Paresh Mandal, a fish vendor at Paradip fishing market. “High demand coupled with limited supply has pushed prices upward,” he added. Major fishing harbours and landing centres, including Paradip, Kharinashi, Jamboo, and Tantiapal, wear a deserted look as fishing activities have come to a halt. According to sources, local fish markets across Kendrapada, Pattamundai, Rajnagar, and Jagatsinghpur are experiencing unprecedented price hikes.Swadhin Dash, a retired bank employee from Kendrapada, noted that several seafood varieties—particularly shrimp—have become luxury items beyond the reach of common people. Some vendors are reportedly profiting from fish stocks stored in cold storage facilities.The fishing ban coincides with the monsoon breeding season of nearly 300 marine species along the Odisha coast. “This measure prevents the netting of gravid fish and allows marine life to regenerate,” explained Bijay Kar, assistant disheries officer, Paradip. He warned that action would be taken against fishermen violating the ban.Market observers predict further price increases ahead of the upcoming Raja festival next month.