The ongoing legal proceedings concerning the environmental impact of a collapsed bridge in Bihar highlight the urgent need for wildlife protection measures in India. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken action against several state agencies following a petition that raised concerns about the debris threatening the Gangetic dolphins, particularly near the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary.
Background of the Issue
The Sultanganj-Aguani ghat bridge, currently under construction, has faced multiple collapses, with debris accumulating in the Ganga River. This situation has raised alarms as the debris poses an important threat to the Gangetic dolphins, which are already classified as endangered. The NGT’s involvement puts stress on the critical intersection of infrastructure development and wildlife preservation.
Gangetic Dolphins – An Overview
The Gangetic river dolphin, scientifically known as Platanista gangetica, is India’s national aquatic animal and is protected under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. These dolphins are unique as they are blind and rely on echolocation to navigate and hunt in the river. They inhabit the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Meghna river systems, primarily in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal.
Environmental Significance
The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (VGDS) covers approximately 50 km along the Ganga and is the only sanctuary dedicated to this species in India. The sanctuary plays important role in conserving the dolphin population, which is estimated at around 3,000 individuals in India, with Bihar hosting an important portion of this population. The presence of debris threatens not only the dolphins but also the ecological balance of the river system.
Legal Implications and Responsibilities
The NGT has summoned representatives from multiple agencies, including the Bihar Pollution Control Board and the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti, to address the environmental concerns raised. The case marks the responsibility of government bodies to mitigate the impacts of construction projects on wildlife and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Conservation Efforts and Challenges
Despite being protected, Gangetic dolphins face numerous threats, including habitat degradation, pollution, and entanglement in fishing nets. Conservation efforts are crucial, as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the species as endangered. The establishment of the VGDS is a step in the right direction, but ongoing monitoring and enforcement of protective measures are essential.
Unique Characteristics of Gangetic Dolphins
These dolphins are known for their distinct adaptations to freshwater habitats. Unlike their marine counterparts, they thrive in relatively shallow waters, typically preferring depths of five to eight feet. Their ability to navigate and hunt in low-visibility conditions through echolocation showcases their remarkable evolutionary adaptations.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the significance of the Gangetic river dolphin in the context of India’s biodiversity.
- Evaluate the role of the National Green Tribunal in environmental conservation in India.
- What measures can be taken to mitigate the impact of infrastructure projects on wildlife?
- Examine the challenges faced in the conservation of endangered species in India.
- How does the habitat of the Gangetic dolphin differ from that of other dolphin species globally?
