India's First Riverine Dolphin Census: A Conservation Milestone

India has completed its initial population estimation of riverine dolphins in the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus rivers, with results pending release. This effort under Project Dolphin focuses on conservation and provides a baseline for future assessments, aiming to safeguard both freshwater and marine dolphins across the region.

In a groundbreaking conservation effort, India has concluded its first-ever population estimation of riverine dolphins in the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus river systems, with results expected soon, officials announced on Monday.

The renowned Ganges river dolphin, a keystone species native to the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna river system, and a small population of the closely related Indus river dolphin were the main focus of this extensive survey, which spanned an incredible 8,000 kilometers over a two-year period.

Launched in 2020, Project Dolphin seeks to protect dolphins in both India's freshwater rivers and coastal waters, emphasizing the crucial role these creatures play as indicators of river health. Plans are also underway for a marine dolphin population study targeting eco-sensitive zones.

(With inputs from agencies.)