Sat Mar 08 15:44:00 UTC 2025: ## Indian River Dolphin Population Critically Low, Study Reveals

**New Delhi, March 8, 2025** – A recent study by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change has revealed a critically low population of river dolphins in India. The study counted a total of 6,327 river dolphins across various species, highlighting the precarious situation of these unique creatures.

While some species, such as the Irrawaddy dolphin found in Chilka Lake (estimated 155 individuals), are a significant tourist attraction, others are facing severe threats. The Indus river dolphin, the state aquatic animal of Punjab, is particularly vulnerable. The study found only three individuals remaining in the Beas river and Harike wetlands, compared to an estimated 1,800 in Pakistan’s Indus river.

The study emphasizes the reliance of these dolphins, including the Ganges river dolphin, on echolocation due to their poor eyesight. Their unique adaptations, including a specialized fatty mass on their foreheads (melon) used for sound focusing, are described in detail.

Human activities are the primary threat to these dolphins. The use of their oil in traditional remedies, overfishing depleting their food supply, entanglement in fishing nets, and chemical pollution are all contributing factors to their decline.

Despite advancements in counting methods, the overall population trend remains uncertain. However, the critically low numbers underscore the urgent need for increased public awareness and conservation efforts to protect these remarkable animals. The authors call for greater attention to this issue, urging the public to recognize the plight of these unique creatures and advocating for stronger conservation measures.

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