Chilika, Jan 19: The much-awaited annual dolphin census in Chilika Lake, the largest brackish water lagoon in India, will kick off tomorrow and continue for three days. This important event will help assess the dolphin population and contribute to ongoing conservation efforts.

A total of 18 specialized teams, each consisting of 3-5 enumerators and an expert, have been formed to conduct the census in the Balugaon and Satpada areas surrounding the lake. The teams will employ the line transect method, utilizing tools like GPS, binoculars, and hydrophones for precise dolphin counting.

To ensure the accuracy and safety of the census, boat movement will be restricted from 6 am to 12 pm each day during the count. Both the Chilika Development Authority and the Forest Department have notified all local boat associations about these restrictions.

In the previous year, the census recorded 173 dolphins, including 154 Irrawaddy dolphins and 19 bottlenose dolphins. The results of this year's count will provide valuable insights into the health of Chilika Lake's ecosystem and support ongoing conservation efforts.