First Population Estimation of Riverine Dolphins in India: Key Findings and Significance
India has conducted its first-ever population estimation of riverine dolphins, revealing a total of 6,327 dolphins across the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus river systems. This significant study, conducted as part of ‘Project Dolphin’, provides crucial insights into the status and distribution of these endangered freshwater species. The findings, published in a government report on Monday, highlight the ecological importance of river dolphins and the need for conservation efforts.
The Ganges river dolphin (Platanista gangetica gangetica) is an endangered freshwater dolphin species found primarily in the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna river system and its tributaries. These dolphins are also found in the waters of India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. Known for their unique adaptations, such as near-total blindness and reliance on echolocation, these dolphins are essential indicators of healthy freshwater ecosystems.
The Indus river dolphin (Platanista gangetica minor), a close relative of the Ganges river dolphin, is primarily found in the Indus river system in Pakistan. However, a small population of three dolphins has been identified in the Beas River in Punjab, India. The presence of this species in India is extremely rare, making its conservation even more critical.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced ‘Project Dolphin’ on August 15, 2020, as a major step toward the conservation of river dolphins and other aquatic species. The project aims to:
The first-ever comprehensive river dolphin population survey was conducted from 2021 to 2023, covering a vast area of over 8,000 km across eight states. These states included:
This survey marks one of the largest freshwater dolphin assessments ever undertaken.
The report titled ‘Population Status of River Dolphin in India’ provides detailed data on the estimated population of dolphins:
The study found that river dolphins thrive in areas with adequate water depth and minimal human disturbance.
The dolphin population varied significantly across different states, with Uttar Pradesh leading in numbers.
State | Dolphin Population |
---|---|
Uttar Pradesh | 2,397 |
Bihar | 2,220 |
West Bengal | 815 |
Assam | 635 |
Jharkhand | 162 |
Rajasthan & Madhya Pradesh | 95 |
Punjab | 3 |
The highest number of dolphins was recorded in Uttar Pradesh, followed closely by Bihar and West Bengal.
The extensive survey covered 58 rivers, with two primary methodologies used:
These methods helped scientists track dolphin populations accurately across various river systems.
The findings underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect river dolphins, which are classified as Endangered under the IUCN Red List. Since river dolphins have a slow reproduction rate, any decline in their numbers could have long-term consequences.
River dolphins are known as ‘indicator species’, meaning their presence reflects the health of freshwater ecosystems. Their survival is directly linked to:
Despite being legally protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, river dolphins face multiple threats, including:
The report highlights the need for stricter conservation policies to address these threats.
The Indian government plans to expand Project Dolphin by:
Experts suggest that the revival of rivers through sustainable water management is essential for dolphin conservation. Key strategies include:
Raising awareness about river dolphins and their ecological role is crucial. Community-led conservation programs can ensure long-term protection of these species.
Category | Details |
---|---|
Why in News? | India conducted its first-ever population estimation of riverine dolphins, revealing a total of 6,327 dolphins across the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus river systems. |
Project Name | Project Dolphin – Launched by PM Narendra Modi on August 15, 2020, to conserve river dolphins and their habitats. |
Total Population | – Ganges River Dolphin: 6,327 (Range: 5,977 – 6,688) – Indus River Dolphin: 3 (found in the Beas River, Punjab) |
Top States by Dolphin Population | 1. Uttar Pradesh – 2,397 2. Bihar – 2,220 3. West Bengal – 815 4. Assam – 635 5. Jharkhand – 162 6. Rajasthan & Madhya Pradesh – 95 7. Punjab – 3 |
Survey Details | – Conducted between 2021-2023 across 8 states. – Covered 58 rivers using boat surveys (28 rivers) and road surveys (30 rivers). – Total survey area: 8,000 km. |
Importance of River Dolphins | – Indicator species reflecting freshwater ecosystem health. – Their presence signifies good water quality and minimal human disturbance. |
Threats to Dolphins | 1. Pollution – Industrial and agricultural waste. 2. Habitat Destruction – Dams, sand mining, water diversion. 3. Accidental Deaths – Entanglement in fishing nets. |
Conservation Efforts | – Strengthening Project Dolphin by creating conservation reserves. – Pollution control measures to improve water quality. – Community participation and awareness programs for long-term conservation. |
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