Source: The Hindu
The Ganga and its tributaries are home to 6,327 Gangetic dolphins, the only riverine dolphins in India, according to the earliest estimate. According to the Environment Ministry, there were three dolphins in the Indus River and 6,324 dolphins in the Ganges River. The endeavor started in 2021 and covered 8,507 km in total.
Using auditory hydrophones, which are essentially underwater microphones, the researchers used the dolphins’ pickup sounds to travel at a steady speed in a boat. Due to their blindness, the creatures communicate and move by using echolocation.
Four years will probably pass before the next survey is conducted. Dolphins face two main challenges: pollution and becoming trapped in fishermen’s nets.
According to reports, Uttar Pradesh had the most dolphins, followed by Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam.
Model Question:
The Gangetic Dolphin, India’s National Aquatic Animal, is an indicator of a healthy river ecosystem. Discuss the major threats to its survival and suggest measures for its conservation. (250 words)
Model Answer:
The Gangetic Dolphin (Platanista gangetica gangetica) is an endangered freshwater species found in the Ganges-Brahmaputra River system. It serves as an indicator species, reflecting the ecological health of rivers. However, increasing anthropogenic activities have led to a sharp decline in its population.
Major Threats to Gangetic Dolphins
- Pollution: Industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, and plastic waste degrade water quality, affecting dolphin survival. High toxin levels impact their reproductive health.
- Habitat Fragmentation: Dams and barrages (e.g., Farakka Barrage) disrupt water flow and isolate dolphin populations, reducing genetic diversity.
- Poaching and Accidental Bycatch: Dolphins are illegally hunted for their oil and meat. Many get trapped in fishing nets and die due to suffocation.
- Declining Prey Availability: Overfishing and pollution reduce fish populations, the primary food source for dolphins.
- Boat Traffic and Noise Pollution: Increasing motorized boats interfere with dolphin echolocation, leading to disorientation and stress.
Measures for Conservation
- Strengthening Legal Protections: Strict enforcement of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (Schedule I) and CITES Appendix I to prevent poaching.
- River Cleaning and Pollution Control: Effective implementation of Namami Gange Program and Ganga Action Plan to reduce pollution.
- Habitat Protection: Expansion of protected areas like Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (Bihar). Ban on destructive fishing practices in key dolphin habitats.
- Sustainable River Management: Conduct Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) before constructing dams and barrages. Ensure adequate water flow in rivers.
- Community Participation and Awareness: Involving local fishermen in conservation efforts. Promoting eco-tourism and sustainable livelihood alternatives.
The conservation of Gangetic Dolphins is crucial for maintaining riverine biodiversity. A multi-pronged approach involving policy enforcement, scientific interventions, and community engagement is necessary to protect this endangered species and ensure the sustainability of India’s freshwater ecosystems.
