Fishermen from Sandhakuda staged a protest outside Paradip Port Gate No. 4 following the death of a 29-year-old fisherman, Lenka Apana. The fishermen alleged that a delay in getting access through the port prevented them from obtaining timely medical treatment for their colleague.
According to the report, five fishermen from Sandhakuda had gone to sea for fishing when their boat tilted after coming into contact with a tidal wave. Apana reportedly lost his balance, struck his chest against the boat and subsequently became ill and began vomiting.
As his condition worsened, the other fishermen reportedly attempted to take him through a Paradip Port berth because they believed it would provide faster access to medical assistance. The fishermen alleged that their request for entry was not permitted in time, leading to anger among members of the local fishing community.
Following his death, fishermen demonstrated with his body outside the port gate, seeking accountability over the incident. The protest brought attention to concerns surrounding emergency access and coordination for fishing communities operating near the Paradip Port area.