Urgent Call for Conservation: Rare and Endangered Dolphins in Nepal’s Waterways
In a world where marine biodiversity faces significant threats, dolphins stand out as one of the most remarkable yet endangered species. These intelligent creatures, which occupy the upper echelons of aquatic food chains, can be found not only in the ocean but also in the pristine waters of rivers globally. There are primarily two categories of dolphins: marine dolphins dwelling in saline waters and their freshwater counterparts, often referred to as freshwater dolphins.
The latter are recognized as rare aquatic animals, particularly prominent in Nepal, where they are classified as protected wildlife under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act of 2029. Recent estimates indicate that approximately 100 dolphins inhabit Nepal’s freshwater systems, specifically the Koshi, Narayani, and Karnali rivers, which are part of the Ganga river basin. According to Rajesh Sand, head of Freshwater Programs at WWF Nepal, a government and International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) survey conducted in 2016 identified 52 dolphins in Nepal—9 in the Koshi and 43 in the Karnali. However, no official surveys have taken place since then, raising concerns about the current status of these vulnerable species.
The construction of dams along the Gandaki River near the Nepal-India border has disrupted the migration patterns of dolphins, preventing their return to Nepalese waters. Sand noted a silver lining, as dolphins were sighted in the Gandaki River last year and this year, particularly during the monsoon when they migrate between tributaries such as the Karnali, Mohana, Kandra, and Pathraiya rivers. The Mohana River in Kailali also serves as a critical habitat for these rare dolphins. July and August mark the birthing season for dolphins, who seek calmer waters during the monsoons. Flooding along the Karnali and Ghanghra rivers forces dolphins to retreat to estuaries and nearby tributaries, where they find the tranquility necessary for raising their young.
Vijayraj Shrestha, Secretary of the Dolphin Conservation Center, emphasizes the importance of these rivers as prime observation points for both locals and tourists alike, stating, “Dolphins can easily be seen migrating in the tributaries of the Karnali river during the rainy season.” Dolphins play a crucial role as indicators of river health, according to Bhojraj Dhungana, President of Dolphin Aquaculture and Biodiversity Conservation Nepal. Locals have learned to predict weather patterns based on dolphin behavior, illustrating the intertwined relationship between these aquatic mammals and their environment. “The presence of dolphins signifies a healthy river,” Dhungana remarked. “If we protect dolphins, we can save thousands of other animals relying on clean water.” The conservation of dolphins is not merely an ecological endeavor; it also holds the potential for economic transformation.
Shrestha notes that increased dolphin tourism has brought opportunities for local communities, fostering development and employment. “Conservation efforts have revitalized villages, transforming places that once discouraged visitors into thriving tourist destinations,” he expressed with enthusiasm. As the plight of dolphins continues to unfold, the call for their protection resonates louder than ever. With their fate intertwined with the health of our rivers and the livelihoods of local communities, urgent measures are crucial to ensuring that these magnificent creatures do not vanish from our waters. The future of dolphins—and, by extension, the health of our aquatic ecosystems—depends on collective action and dedicated conservation efforts.
