The Gangetic dolphin (Platanista gangetica), one of India's most intriguing yet elusive animals, lives in the waters of the old Ganges and its tributaries. These freshwater dolphins were once common across the river systems of the subcontinent but they are now seriously threatened making protection essential. According to a recent population estimate by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, there are 6,327 of them spread throughout four Indian states, confirming their dominance in some riverine areas. The survey was undertaken across 28 rivers in eight state, with 3,150 man-days dedicated to cover 8,500 kms.
Here are few locations where you can still see these threatened aquatic creatures and how conservation is assisting in maintaining their population.
Uttar Pradesh's river system has made it a crucial state for Gangetic dolphin populations. For these creatures, the Yamuna, Chambal and Ganges rivers offer vital habitats. Boat cruises along the Ganges boost the likelihood of seeing them, making Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary a prime stop for dolphin spotting. Awareness has also been raised by conservation efforts like the "My Ganga, My Dolphin" campaign, which encourages residents and visitors to enjoy these uncommon animals without endangering their ecosystems.
With the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, India's first protected area devoted to these species, Bihar has long been at the forefront of Gangetic dolphin protection. One of the greatest places to see them in the wild is along this 60 km section of the Ganges, which runs between Sultanganj and Kahalgaon. Here, conservation initiatives concentrate on addressing pollution, avoiding habitat loss, and engaging local populations in ecotourism. In addition to giving tourists a chance to see these elegant animals, dolphin-watching excursions in this area helps the locals who depend on the river for their livelihood.
Although the Ganges is these dolphins' principal home, the Brahmaputra River in Assam is also an important habitat. The Brahmaputra is home to a sizable population of Gangetic dolphins because of its deep waters and abundant biodiversity. Dolphin sightings are more difficult here due to its strong currents, although attentive watchers frequently see the mammals surface for air. By controlling riverine construction projects and keeping an eye on pollution levels, the Assam government has been actively preserving their environment.
The Sundarbans, a complex system of rivers and estuaries in West Bengal, offer the Gangetic dolphin a significant, but little-known, haven. Anecdotal data indicates that these dolphins are still able to travel the brackish waters of the delta, even if population estimates for this area are still being finalised. Threats including rising salinity brought on by climate change. Boat traffic and fishing also present serious difficulties. To guarantee that dolphins continue to flourish in the area's mangrove forests, conservationists are trying to set up improved monitoring systems in these seas.
The Gangetic dolphin is still considered endangered, even with positive population estimates. There are still major risks from bycatch in fishing nets, deteriorating water quality, and habitat fragmentation brought on by dams and barrages. Aware of these difficulties, the Indian government started Project Dolphin, a program designed to enhance habitat preservation, lower pollution and promote ecotourism as a long-term strategy for the species' preservation. Furthermore, October 5 is National Ganga River Dolphin Day, which has grown to become a significant annual occasion to increase public awareness of these amazing animals.
For anyone who enjoys the outdoors, witnessing a Gangetic dolphin in the wild is a unique experience. In areas that are conducive to conservation, such as Hastinapur in Uttar Pradesh, Vikramshila in Bihar, and some areas of Assam's Brahmaputra, guided boat tours are the most effective way to accomplish this. These experiences not only bring visitors closer to India’s riverine biodiversity, but also contribute to the ongoing efforts to save one of the country’s most unique aquatic mammals. Governments, local communities and tourists must continue to support conservationists' efforts in order to guarantee the Gangetic dolphin's existence for future generations.