Odisha’s latest dolphin census has brought a mix of excitement and cautious optimism, with a total count of 710 dolphins recorded across the state’s coastal and estuarine waters. While the numbers look promising, conservationists warn against complacency, emphasizing the ongoing threats these marine creatures face.
Leading the count, Bhitarkanika National Park emerged as the dolphin capital of Odisha with a staggering 505 individuals, while Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, recorded 174 dolphins. In comparison, the Berhampur, Puri, Balasore, and Bhadrak divisions reported much lower figures, with single-digit counts in some areas—making one wonder whether they simply missed the census roll call or if their populations are dwindling due to human impact.
Experts highlight that this census offers crucial insights into Odisha’s marine biodiversity, but the bigger question remains—what next? With growing industrialization, pollution, and illegal fishing practices, will these numbers hold steady in the future, or are we celebrating a short-lived victory?
For now, Odisha can take pride in its thriving dolphin population, but real conservation efforts will determine whether future reports will be as hopeful.