Eco-tourism in Chilka threatens Irrawaddy Dolphin population

Bhubaneswar, Feb 05 (UNI) Eco tourism and livelihood of thousands of fishermen in Chilka have sealed the proposal for a Dolphin sanctuary mooted by the Chilka Development Authority (CDA), to conserve and preserve the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin.

The proposed sanctuary spread over 30 sq kms covering Magarmukh to new mouth of the lake along the east coast, identified as the largest population of lagoonal dolphins, is still pending with the Orissa government.

Though the Irrawaddy population appears healthy the threats facing the population are significant and mortality rates are far higher than normal.

According to CDA Chief Executive S K Panda about 28 dolphins have died in the lake during the last three years. However the casualty figure was 17 during 2004-2005, eight in 2005-2006 and three in 2006-2007.

The unrestricted fishing and operation of large number of mechanised boats inside the lake have posed a serious threat to the survival of these rare species of dolphins.

At least ten Dolphins were killed every year following extensive use of fishing nets, mechanised boats and ferries, that carry tourists in the lake.

As a result the small population of Irrawady dolphins, considered to be highly endangered, has been under serious stress, Mr Panda said.

He said the census conducted by the CDA last year revealed the presence of nearly 123 dolphins inside the lake. The fresh water population of the species is found only in South and South East Asian waters and the populations of Chilka lagoon in India and Songkhla lake in Thailand are two isolated or partially isolated lagoonal populations.

Operation of nets in dolphin rich areas as well as the channel used by them for movement is detrimental to the population. High density tourist boats plying along the narrow Outer channel for dolphin watching is another major threat to the dolphin population.

The CDA governing body in the past had suggested to constitute a Dolphin sanctuary with the option that the fishing and other traditional activities not detrimental to the dolphin will only be allowed.

Accordingly the CDA had submitted a proposal for consideration of the Dolphin sanctuary inside the lake but the matter was still pending with the state government as it would involve the livelihood of thousands of fishermen and create a setback to the eco-tourism plan of the government.

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