India has officially launched its second nationwide dolphin survey, with fieldwork beginning in Uttar Pradesh's Bijnor district. This ambitious project aims to assess the population and distribution of dolphins across the country's major river systems.
Survey Phases and Coverage Areas
The survey will unfold in two distinct phases to ensure thorough coverage of India's diverse aquatic habitats.
First Phase: Ganga and Indus Rivers
The initial phase focuses on the main stem of the Ganga River, stretching from Bijnor all the way to Ganga Sagar. Simultaneously, researchers will survey the Indus River. This phase establishes a baseline for these critical northern waterways.
Second Phase: Expanded River Network
The second phase broadens the scope significantly. It will cover the Brahmaputra River, various tributaries of the Ganga, the vast mangrove ecosystem of the Sundarbans, and coastal waters off Odisha. This comprehensive approach ensures data is collected from all major dolphin habitats.
Importance of the Dolphin Census
This survey is crucial for several reasons. Dolphins are considered indicator species for river health. Their presence and population numbers directly reflect the condition of the aquatic ecosystem. A healthy dolphin population often signifies clean water and a balanced food web.
The data gathered will help conservationists and policymakers:
- Monitor population trends since the first survey.
- Identify key habitats and potential threats to dolphin survival.
- Formulate better strategies for river conservation and pollution control.
- Assess the impact of existing protection measures.
Conducting such a large-scale survey requires coordination between multiple state forest departments, wildlife institutes, and independent researchers. The effort underscores India's commitment to preserving its unique aquatic biodiversity.
The findings from this second national census will provide an updated, scientific snapshot of India's dolphin populations, guiding future conservation efforts for years to come.
