Chilika, Sept 1: Chilika, which is the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia, is home to around 155-165 Irrawaddy dolphins according to the fifth Flora and Fauna survey. However, these rare aquatic creatures are currently facing a serious threat to their survival. Due to this, it has become a cause of concern for wildlife experts, environmentalists and enthusiasts.
The wildlife experts’ claim is a lackadaisical approach by authorities in curbing unregulated and illegal activities involving mechanized boats within the lake.
According to these experts, operators of commercial boats often pursue groups of dolphins within the lake, attempting to offer tourists a clear view of these aquatic creatures. Unfortunately, due to this instance, some dolphins collide with the boats and their propellers, resulting in injuries. Tragically, many of these injured dolphins do not recover and succumb to their wounds.
In fact, sometimes these marine animals also become entangled in the fishing nets used by local fishermen, which frequently leads to their untimely deaths.
This ecosystem has earned the prestigious recognition of being India's first Indian wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.
The locals, however, allege that neither the concerned authorities nor the local people are concerned about the safety of the Irrawaddy dolphins, making them endangered.
Though the administration has put up sign boards making the private boat operators alert not to propel boats inside the dolphin, they have scant regard for the rule due to the lack of its strict implementation.
Local Balugaon Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Amlan Nayak stated that action is being taken against the boat operators who are flouting the rules.
"There has been enforcement on irresponsible tourism. Chilika Development Authority (CDA) and Chilika Forest Division are jointly taking action against the unruly private boat operators," said Nayak.
