Over 100 fishermen from the Kanas area have been reportedly stranded in the middle of Chilika Lake after their boats ran out of diesel while returning from fishing activities.

According to reports, around 40 boats from the Jagulai Padar area under the Kanas region remain stranded inside Chilika due to a shortage of fuel, leaving fishermen unable to return to the shore, sources said on Saturday.

Several fishermen have reportedly taken shelter on small islands within the lake after their boats got stuck midway.

Boats stranded near Daya river mouth

Reports said multiple boats were also seen anchored near the banks around the Daya river mouth, located around 8 km from Jagulai Padar, after exhausting their diesel supply mid-journey.

Family members of the stranded fishermen have expressed concern, as many of them have remained stuck inside Chilika for several hours without being able to return home.

Local residents said the fishermen had ventured deep into Chilika for fishing activities, but later faced difficulties returning due to fuel shortage.

Fishermen waiting for assistance

With diesel completely exhausted, the fishermen are now waiting for fuel supply or rescue assistance to bring their boats back to the mainland.

The incident comes amid reports of diesel shortages and panic buying in several parts of Odisha over the past few days. Long queues have been witnessed at fuel stations across multiple districts, while some areas have also reported restricted diesel availability.

No official statement has yet been issued regarding rescue measures or arrangements to safely bring the stranded fishermen back.