Archive · 10 Aug 2025
Study Launched to Protect Endangered Gangetic Dolphins
Imagine a special river dolphin, India's national aquatic animal, that is in danger.
These dolphins live in rivers like the Ganga.
Sometimes, they get caught in fishing nets.
To help them, the government is studying where they live and how many there are.
They've found thousands, but their numbers are decreasing due to things like pollution and fishing.
Now, the government is also putting sensors on boats to prevent the dolphins from getting hurt.
It's like making sure these dolphins have a safe place to live and thrive!
A Gangetic dolphin was caught in a fisherman's net in the Bhagirathi River.
The West Bengal Forest Department will conduct a study on Gangetic dolphins.
The Gangetic dolphin is India's national aquatic animal, listed as endangered since 1996.
A 2021 census recorded 6,224 Gangetic dolphins in the Ganga and its tributaries.
Steps are being taken to protect dolphins from vessel strikes, including sensor installation.
- Who
- The West Bengal Forest Department and the Inland Waterways Authority of India are involved.
- What
- The West Bengal Forest Department will study the endangered Gangetic dolphins.
- When
- The study is planned to commence soon after the article's publication.
- Where
- The study will be conducted in the Bhagirathi River and the Ganga.
- Why
- To understand and protect the endangered Gangetic dolphins.
Protecting the Dolphins
Balancing Interests
Fishing Practices vs. Dolphin Protection
Protecting the Dolphins
Focus on deploying new technologies and implementing new regulations to protect these endangered species.
Balancing Interests
Maintain current fishing practices while attempting to avoid endangering the Gangetic dolphin. Maintain a balance.
- Species
- Gangetic Dolphin
- IUCN Status
- Endangered
- Indian National Aquatic Animal
- Yes
- 2021 Census Count
- 6,224 Gangetic dolphins
- Sanctuary
- Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary
- Threats
- Food scarcity, pollution, fishing activities and boat strikes.