To safeguard its rich marine biodiversity, the Tamil Nadu government is implementing Project Dolphin in the state. This initiative is meticulously designed to focus on the conservation and protection of marine dolphins, with a primary emphasis on the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, the most frequently observed species in the region. The project is to be mostly implemented in Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve.
Speaking with Indian Masterminds, IFS officer Jagdish S Bakan, who is the Ramanathapuram Wildlife Warden and Director of Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, shed light on the ambitious Project Dolphin.
GULF OF MANNAR
The Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, renowned for its rich marine life, hosts a variety of dolphin species, including the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, Rough-toothed dolphin, Pantropical Spotted Dolphin, Spinner Dolphin, and Common Dolphin.
Major habitats of the dolphins are found in the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve. “Last year, 7 dolphins were successfully rescued and released back to the sea at Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve,” Mr. Bakan said.
The vibrant ecosystems near the Mandapam group of islands, particularly Kurusadai Island, serve as crucial hotspots for these majestic creatures.
PROJECT AIM
Project Dolphin is multi-faceted, aiming to achieve Dolphin Habitat Improvement through ecosystem restoration, enhanced patrolling for dolphin protection, community awareness through a dedicated dolphin interpretation centre, and the promotion of dolphin ecotourism. The officer informed that the overarching goal is to gather scientific data on dolphins and their ecology, alongside motivating fishermen to actively participate in dolphin rescue efforts.
The project’s implementation promises to augment dolphin habitats, ensuring an abundance of food resources while minimizing bycatch and entanglement incidents through improved patrolling.
The project to conserve the highly endangered marine mammal will be implemented at a cost of Rs. 8.13 crore.
SENSITIZING FISHING COMMUNITY
Furthermore, the initiative seeks to sensitize the local fishing community to the importance of dolphin conservation. “To achieve this, we are planning to introduce various measures such as underwater monitoring technologies like Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and the development of a comprehensive Dolphin Conservation Network,” the officer told Indian Masterminds. This network will bring together all stakeholders, fostering integrated and inclusive efforts toward dolphin conservation.
DOLPHIN MORTALITY
To combat common causes of dolphin mortality, such as aging, collisions with rocks, and attacks by higher predators, the project is investing in activities like the ecological restoration of corals, mangroves, and seagrass. Ghost net and marine debris removal, coupled with beach clean-ups, aim to improve the overall dolphin habitat and mitigate potential threats.
FISHERMEN AWARENESS
Further, the forest department is planning to conduct awareness camps and reward fishermen for their active involvement in dolphin rescue missions. The initiative acknowledges the vital role fishermen play in protecting dolphins and will continue to organize them under Eco-development Committees (EDCs) in 252 coastal villages through the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve Trust (GOMBRT).
“Community-based dolphin ecotourism initiatives, operated by organizations such as EDCs, will not only provide economic opportunities for the local community but also instill a sense of responsibility towards marine conservation,” the officer said.
By addressing the various facets of dolphin conservation, the initiative not only aims to protect these charismatic creatures but also strives to maintain the delicate balance of the ocean’s health. With the active involvement of the fishing community and the implementation of innovative technologies, Project Dolphin is steering Tamil Nadu towards a sustainable and harmonious coexistence between humans and marine life.
