Bhubaneswar, Feb 11: Odisha has marked a significant achievement in marine conservation, with the latest dolphin census documenting 765 dolphins across multiple species along the state’s coastline, including the biodiversity-rich Chilika Lake. The survey, conducted in January, underscores the success of sustained conservation measures and increasing cooperation between forest officials and local fishing communities.
According to the census, 208 Irrawaddy dolphins were recorded, with a dominant population of 159 sighted in Chilika Lake, reaffirming its global importance as a habitat for the endangered species. Another nine Irrawaddy dolphins were spotted in Rajnagar. Dolphin sightings were also reported from coastal regions such as Balasore, Berhampur, and Puri.
The Humpback dolphin population was the highest at 495 individuals. Besides these, Bottlenose, Spinner, and Finless dolphins were also documented, reflecting rich marine biodiversity in Odisha’s waters.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Prem Kumar Jha credited the encouraging figures to focused conservation planning, habitat protection, and anti-poaching enforcement. Variations in Irrawaddy numbers between regions suggest natural migration. Overall, dolphin populations have remained stable over the past five years, indicating long-term conservation progress.
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