TN govt implements ‘Project Dolphin’ to strengthen marine ecology

“More than four types of dolphin species are found in the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve. The Project will be implemented at a cost of Rs 812.6 lakhs during the year 2023-2024. Several activities including Dolphin number estimation, protection surveillance and awareness enhancement will be undertaken,” Sahu wrote on X.

In a statement, Sahu noted that more than nine species of marine dolphins are found in the coastal waters of Tamil Nadu with the major habitats of the dolphins found in the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve.

In 2022, seven dolphins were successfully rescued by the department and released back into the sea at the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, an area of high productivity with rich marine biodiversity, including marine mammals such as dugongs, the statement read.

Saying that dolphins play an important role in keeping the marine environment in balance, it was noted that they face various natural and human-induced threats which include hunting, entanglement in fishing nets, overfishing, climate change, ship strikes, tourism activities, toxic contamination, noise pollution, oil and gas development and habitat degradation.

The statement added, “The conservation of dolphins and their aquatic habitat through use of modern technology by engaging with fishermen and other ocean dependent populations is proposed under the project. This will be helpful in improving the population of dolphin species and protection of their habitat at the same time improving livelihood of the local communities.”

Rescue and rehabilitation activities through strengthening of veterinary services, dolphin habitat improvement through restoration of coastal eco- system like mangroves, corals, sea grass etc. are some of the other measures the department is planning.

The project also is focused on enhancing awareness through celebration of the ‘National Dolphin Day’ with the involvement of the local community and educational Institutions, including launch of ‘Dolphin Scholarship’ programme to enhance the understanding of their habitats.

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