Local fishermen in Pudupattinam, Thanjavur District recently rescued and released an adult Dugong. IAS officer Supriya Sahu recently took to social media platform X to share a video showcasing the admirable efforts of these fishermen. Tamil Nadu has officially designated India’s inaugural ‘Dugong Conservation Reserve’ in the ecologically significant Palk Bay.
Ms. Sahu wrote, “Tamil Nadu has notified India’s first ‘Dugong Conservation Reserve’ in Palk Bay covering the coastal waters of Thanjavur and Pudukottai districts with an area of 448 Sq kilometers. Dugongs are highly endangered due to climate change leading to habitat loss. They thrive on sea grass beds which are found in the Palk Bay.”
Tamil Nadu Government is also setting up a Dugong Conservation Centre at Thanjavur, she added. Base line studies and restoration of sea grass beds is currently going on apart from awareness creation. “Frequent sightings of Dugongs recently, fills our hearts with happiness and hope. We will do everything possible to conserve these beautiful gems on our planet,” added Supriya Sahu, IAS.
Heartfelt thanks to local fishermen of Pudupattinam in Thanjavur District in Tamil Nadu for safely rescuing and releasing an adult Dugong. We shall reward them for their efforts. Tamil Nadu has notified India's first ‘Dugong Conservation Reserve’ in Palk Bay covering the coastal… pic.twitter.com/3XxBB2W6Mv
— Supriya Sahu IAS (@supriyasahuias) November 28, 2023
