New Delhi: In a groundbreaking effort to assess the health of India’s rivers, a comprehensive survey conducted between 2021 and 2023 has estimated the country’s river dolphin population at approximately 6,327. This first-ever national census, part of the government’s Project Dolphin initiative, highlights both the challenges and successes in conserving these iconic creatures. The survey, which spanned over 8,000 kilometers across eight states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Assam, underscores the critical role of local communities in protecting these endangered species.
Uttar Pradesh leads with an estimated 2,397 dolphins, closely followed by Bihar with 2,220, and West Bengal with 815. Assam recorded 635 dolphins, while Jharkhand and the combined regions of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh reported smaller numbers. Notably, Punjab is home to the last two remaining Indus River Dolphins in the Beas River, a stark reminder of the species’ precarious status.
Both Gangetic and Indus River Dolphins are classified as endangered by the IUCN, facing threats from habitat degradation, pollution, and dam construction. Despite these challenges, the survey indicates that dolphins thrive in areas with sufficient water depth and minimal human disturbance. The Wildlife Institute of India employed innovative methods, including underwater acoustic surveys and trained personnel, to ensure accurate counts.
The survey’s findings were released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 7th meeting of the National Board for Wildlife in Gujarat. Modi emphasized the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts, highlighting the need for awareness and participation from local populations.
