First Phase of Turtle Study Completed at Tripura’s Kalyan Sagar Lake

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Turtle study in Kalyan Sagar Lake
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Tripura’s Gomati district administration has completed the first phase of a turtle conservation study in Kalyan Sagar Lake, the sacred waterbody adjacent to the historic Tripurasundari Temple in Udaipur. The lake is home to rare soft-shell turtles, locally revered and ecologically significant.

In an official update posted on Facebook on Monday, Gomati District Magistrate Tarit Kanti Chakma shared that this marks a milestone in understanding the biological diversity and health of the lake’s turtle population.

Sacred lake under scientific lens

Kalyan Sagar Lake, spread over 5.2 acres, has long attracted attention for its religious importance and the presence of the Indian soft-shell turtle (Nilssonia gangetica), a Schedule I species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

This scientific study is the first structured attempt to document and analyse the condition of these turtles. It also aims to identify potential risks from pollution, overcrowding, and unregulated feeding by devotees.

Collaborative effort for conservation

The study is being carried out by the Tripura Forest Department, in association with zoologists, conservation NGOs, and local experts. The team used non-invasive observation techniques, water sampling, and habitat mapping to understand the living conditions and behaviour of the turtles.

District officials have stated that the data collected will serve as the foundation for a long-term conservation action plan that balances the ecological and spiritual significance of the lake.

Key findings from the first phase

According to preliminary insights shared by the district administration, the turtles appear to be under moderate stress due to:

  • High nitrate content in the water
  • Accumulation of plastic waste
  • Disruption of natural diet due to overfeeding of puffed rice and biscuits by pilgrims

District officials emphasized that maintaining water quality and natural habitat are essential for the species’ long-term survival.

Public awareness to play major role

The District Magistrate noted that while scientific methods are being adopted, community involvement remains central. “Turtles of Kalyan Sagar are not just animals; they are sacred to the people. Their conservation must be rooted in both science and tradition,” Chakma stated.

Authorities are preparing an awareness campaign involving school children, temple committees, and local vendors. Visual signages and eco-guides will soon be introduced to educate visitors on proper turtle-feeding practices and waste management.

Second phase to begin soon

The second phase of the study will begin next month. It will include tagging and tracking turtles, further analysis of water pollution, and silt management to maintain lake depth.

Experts from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) and Northeast regional conservation groups have been invited to take part in this phase. The final report is expected to be submitted by December 2025.

Temple trust also steps in

The Tripurasundari Temple Trust Board has also pledged to support the effort. The Board is working with the administration to install waste disposal units, and restrict harmful feeding materials around the lake.

This partnership between science, faith, and governance is expected to serve as a model for turtle conservation in other temple-linked lakes across India.

Visit Wildlife Institute of India’s turtle conservation programs

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