GUWAHATI: Aquatic animal lovers and environmentalists in Assam have expressed deep concern and grief over the mysterious deaths of river dolphins in the region. The recent incident in Dhubri district of lower Assam has sparked outrage among locals and environmental activists.
Environmentalists conveyed their distress in a written letter to Borok Times, stating, “We express deep grief over the death of a river dolphin in Dhubri district of lower Assam. Meanwhile, the dolphins in the Brahmaputra river at Guijan (Dibru-Saikhowa National Park) in Tinsukia district of upper Assam also need to be safeguarded.”
The incident in Dhubri involved the discovery of a dead river dolphin in the Majerchar area, and it has left the local community and environmentalists mourning the loss. Preliminary reports suggest that the adult dolphin had its lower jaw severed by a fishing net snare, raising concerns about the impact of human activities on the vulnerable aquatic species.
This tragic event follows a series of similar incidents in the past, including the discovery of dead dolphins floating in the Brahmaputra river in Tinsukia after the Baghjan Gas Oil tragedies. These occurrences highlight the ongoing threats faced by river dolphins in the region, linking some incidents directly to human-induced activities.
The Ganges river dolphin, scientifically known as Platanista Gangetica, is classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The dwindling population of these unique dolphins underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts and heightened awareness to protect their habitats and ensure their survival.
Environmentalists are urging authorities to investigate the recent death in Dhubri and take necessary measures to prevent further harm to the river dolphin population. They emphasize the importance of sustainable fishing practices and the implementation of stringent measures to mitigate the impact of human activities on the aquatic ecosystem.
The mysterious deaths of river dolphins serve as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between human development and environmental conservation. The call for action resonates not only in Assam but also echoes the global need to protect endangered species and preserve the biodiversity that contributes to the health of our planet.