Dehradun: For the first time in India, the number of river dolphins has been estimated to be 6,327. This assessment was conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in Dehradun between 2021 and 2023, and the results were released during the seventh meeting of the National Wildlife Board chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Gir (Junagadh).
River dolphins, specifically the South Asian River dolphin (Platanista gangetica), are found in several rivers across India. They are known as the Ganges River dolphins (Platanista gangetica gangetica) and are mainly found in the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and their tributaries.
Dolphin population 3,500 in Ganga and tributaries
The previous assessment, carried out under the Namami Gange program, only covered the Ganga and its tributaries, estimating the dolphin population at 3,500. This time, the assessment included several rivers, such as the Brahmaputra. A total of 105 researchers, 105 forest department workers, and 32 NGO personnel participated in the study. The project was led by Dr. Qamar Qureshi and Vishnu Priya.
6,327 river dolphins are a positive development for conservation efforts
The new estimate of 6,327 river dolphins is a positive development for conservation efforts. According to Virendra Tiwari, Director of the Wildlife Institute of India, this comprehensive assessment provides valuable data for future conservation plans. The report is expected to aid in the preservation of dolphins, similar to the regular release of tiger assessment reports. The Ganges River dolphin is a freshwater species and plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem of the rivers. They are often referred to as the “Susu” due to the sound they make while breathing. These dolphins are considered endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and human activities.
Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of dolphins at 2,397
The dolphin estimation survey covered 28 rivers across eight states. Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number of dolphins at 2,397, followed by Bihar with 2,220 dolphins. West Bengal reported 815 dolphins, Assam had 635, Jharkhand recorded 162, Rajasthan-Madhya Pradesh combined reported 95, and Punjab had 3 dolphins.
WII plans to release dolphin assessment reports at regular intervals
The findings emphasize the importance of continued conservation efforts. The assessment report highlights the need to protect dolphin habitats and ensure their survival. The collaborative effort of researchers, forest department workers, and NGOs underscores the significance of a unified approach to wildlife conservation. The Wildlife Institute of India plans to release dolphin assessment reports at regular intervals, similar to tiger assessments. This approach will help monitor the dolphin population and implement effective conservation strategies.
