India Confirms 6,327 Ganges River Dolphins in Groundbreaking Nationwide Survey

Landmark Survey for India’s Endangered River Mammal

India Confirms 6,327 Ganges River Dolphins in Groundbreaking Nationwide Survey: A major breakthrough in aquatic wildlife research has revealed that 6,327 Ganges river dolphins currently inhabit Indian rivers. Conducted over multiple years, this comprehensive study is the first national-level dolphin count using advanced acoustic monitoring, marking a pivotal moment for freshwater biodiversity conservation.

Using Sound to Track Silent Swimmers

Started in 2021, the survey used hydrophones, underwater sensors that capture the echolocation clicks produced by dolphins. Spanning over 8,500 km of river systems, the method proved more reliable than visual sightings, as these dolphins are elusive and stay submerged for long periods. By mapping sound patterns, surveyors minimized duplication errors and achieved precise dolphin counts.

Where Are the Dolphins Found?

Of the 6,327 total, 6,324 are Ganges dolphins and 3 are Indus dolphins. The majority reside in Uttar Pradesh, followed by Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam. Around 3,275 dolphins were recorded in the mainstream Ganga, while 2,414 individuals were found across tributaries like the Yamuna, Ghaghara, and Gandak. Additional sightings were reported in the Brahmaputra and Beas rivers.

Understanding the Ganges River Dolphin

This species, known by the scientific name Platanista gangetica, is blind and relies entirely on echolocation to navigate and hunt. These mammals surface every 30 to 120 seconds to breathe and usually swim alone or in small groups. With a slow reproductive cycle—only one calf every 2 to 3 years—their numbers grow very gradually, making conservation critical.

Dolphins as Indicators of River Health

Recognized as the National Aquatic Animal of India, the Ganges river dolphin is an important bioindicator of freshwater health. Their presence suggests clean water, low pollution, and limited human interference. Any decline in their population may signal ecological damage or pollution spikes in river systems.

Human-Induced Threats to Their Survival

Despite protective laws, these dolphins face ongoing threats. They often get trapped in fishing gear, are hunted for oil and meat, and suffer from polluted waters due to industrial discharge. Riverbank construction, sand mining, and damming also contribute to habitat destruction and fragmentation of their natural ranges.

India’s Dolphin Conservation Programs

To protect these rare river mammals, the government launched Project Dolphin under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The Vikramshila Ganges Dolphin Sanctuary in Bihar serves as a core zone for dolphin conservation. Additionally, October 5th is observed every year as National Ganga River Dolphin Day to raise awareness and public engagement.

The Road Ahead: Monitoring, Policy, and Community

India plans its next dolphin census in four years. Conservationists stress the importance of regular tracking, data collection, and community involvement to ensure continued success. Policy updates, citizen science efforts, and eco-tourism initiatives can all contribute to preserving this freshwater flagship species.

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India Confirms 6,327 Ganges River Dolphins in Groundbreaking Nationwide Survey: