In a remarkable turn of events, a recent census conducted by the Gujarat Forest Department revealed a significant increase in the population of dolphins along the Gujarat coast. The numbers have surged from 221 in 2022 to an astounding 678 in 2024. This development has sparked interest and excitement among conservationists, wildlife enthusiasts, and the general public alike.
Indian Masterminds had the opportunity to speak with IFS officer Nityanand Shrivastava, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden of Gujarat, who shared detailed insights into the dolphin survey and the factors contributing to this impressive growth.
Expanded Survey Efforts
The substantial increase in dolphin numbers can be largely attributed to the extent and thoroughness of the recent survey. Unlike the previous surveys limited to Marine National Park, this year’s survey, conducted in January, covered a much broader area. The survey extended from Sir Creek, at the top of the Kutch area adjoining the Pakistan border, through Kandla Port, the Marine National Park, and the Gulf of Kambhat.
Mr. Shrivastava elaborated on the expanded scope of the survey, stating, “Right from Sir Creek, that is, the top of the Kutch area adjoining the Pakistan border, to Kandla Port, the Marine National Park, and also the Gulf of Kambhat, we surveyed three significant areas. There’s still a long patch from the Gulf of Khambhat to Vapi that we have not yet covered.”
Rigorous Census Methodology
Conducting the dolphin census involved meticulous planning and the participation of numerous individuals. The survey was conducted over three days, with many boats hired to traverse the coastline. Mr. Shrivastava explained, “We planned the movement area of each boat based on GPS points. Each boat was assigned a specific grid, and the crew’s job was to observe and record dolphin sightings within their designated grid.”
Each boat carried a team of three to four people who monitored the sea and recorded the number of dolphins observed. The movement of dolphins between grids was accounted for, and the average number of sightings over the three-day period was used to determine the final count. “The number that comes out averages out, and it’s the number that we have reported,” he said.
While the current survey has revealed a significant increase in the dolphin population, there is potential for even higher numbers if the entire coast of Gujarat is surveyed.
Tourism and Community Involvement
The increase in dolphin numbers presents a unique opportunity for tourism development along the Gujarat coast. Mr. Shrivastava highlighted potential tourist spots such as Koteshwar near Sir Creek, an area currently managed by the Border Security Force (BSF) with minimal tourism activities. “The prime minister is doing everything for the development of the border areas, including tourism development,” he said.
To facilitate dolphin tourism, infrastructure such as jetties and suitable vessels are essential. Okha is another area identified for tourism development, with advanced-stage approvals for the nature of vessels to be used and management plans. The officer emphasized the importance of involving local communities in the tourism initiative, stating, “Once the tourism starts, the local community will get the benefit. Their involvement has to be there.”
Conservation Measures
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin as vulnerable due to threats like habitat loss, pollution, and overfishing. Mr. Shrivastava discussed the forest department’s measures to protect dolphins, highlighting that while fishermen do not intentionally catch dolphins, they can get entangled in fishing nets. “Fishermen don’t catch dolphins; a dolphin can come in the fisherman’s net. But generally, they don’t catch it because the net gets damaged,” he explained.
Dolphin Watch Initiatives
In addition to census efforts, the Gujarat Forest Department is exploring ways to develop regulated dolphin watching through cruises. An MoU has been signed with an agency during Vibrant Gujarat, aiming to start dolphin-watching tours once government approvals for operational guidelines are in place. “The agency will also take time because it has to acquire a proper boat, do the advertisement, and bring people,” Mr. Shrivastava explained.
The significant increase in dolphin numbers along the Gujarat coast demonstrates the effectiveness of conservation efforts and the meticulous planning of the recent survey. While challenges remain, particularly in covering the entire coastline and developing tourism infrastructure, the future looks promising. The involvement of local communities and the development of regulated tourism initiatives will play a crucial role in sustaining and further enhancing the dolphin population. As awareness grows and more people get the opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures, the conservation message will undoubtedly resonate more widely, ensuring a brighter future for dolphins along the Gujarat coast.
