Scientists have identified critical river stretches for long-term conservation of the endangered Gangetic dolphin in the Ganga river basin.
Key Findings of the Study:
- Gangetic dolphins are found in most tributaries and sub-tributaries of the Ganga river, with more than 15% residing in smaller rivers.
- Population stability is seen in the main channel of the Ganga, but declines are noted in tributaries like the Gandak, Kosi, and Mahananda.
- New population data shows a presence in previously unreported rivers such as Rapti, Babai, and Bagmati.
- Smaller rivers serve as refuges for aquatic macrofauna and are crucial for the resilience and ecological functioning of the larger river system.
Threats to Gangetic Dolphins:
- Dams and barrages disrupt river flow and water availability.
- Climate change further complicates habitat conditions.
- Pollution from agricultural runoff contains harmful chemicals affecting dolphins.
- Unintentional killings and poaching for dolphin oil.
- Overfishing and net entanglement threaten dolphin survival.
- Increased sediment deposition due to deforestation in catchment areas.
- Mechanized boat traffic increases risks to dolphins.
- The fragmentation of populations by river infrastructure like dams.
Key Recommendations:
- Implement a comprehensive river basin-wide conservation strategy that includes systematic planning and involvement of various stakeholders.
- Focus conservation efforts on identified stretches totaling 620 km along the smaller rivers of the Ganga basin.
- Use umbrella-species approach for the conservation of small rivers, benefiting the Gangetic dolphin and other smaller species.
- Monitor biodiversity changes, implement stringent pollution controls, and manage fisheries better.
- Enhance local and river basin scale actions to tackle challenges from dams and climate impacts.
- Promote awareness and strengthen enforcement to reduce intentional killings of dolphins.
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