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The latest Odisha’s Dolphin Census, conducted by the state’s Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department, has revealed a heartening count of 710 dolphins across its coastal waters. Released on March 12, 2025, this report underscores Odisha’s strides in safeguarding its biodiversity. Odisha once again demonstrated its commitment to preserving its ecological treasures. As we move ahead together, this achievement offers both pride and a call to action for the state’s residents.
Bhitarkanika: The Dolphin Sanctuary
At the heart of this census lies Bhitarkanika National Park and Marine Sanctuary, emerging as Odisha’s premier dolphin habitat with a remarkable 505 individuals recorded. This mangrove-rich region in Kendrapada district has long been a cradle of biodiversity, nurturing species like the saltwater crocodile and Olive Ridley turtle. The 2024-25 census highlights a diverse population here, including 470 humpback dolphins, 22 Irrawaddy dolphins, 5 bottlenose dolphins, and 8 spinner dolphins. Though this figure shows a slight dip from last year’s 550, it reaffirms Bhitarkanika’s vital role in marine conservation. Forest officials, led by Divisional Forest Officer Sudarshan Gopinath Yadav, attribute this robust presence to sustained efforts in habitat protection.
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Chilika: A Haven for Irrawaddy Dolphins
Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, continues to enchant as a sanctuary, reporting 174 dolphins in the latest count. Nestled across Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam districts, this ecological gem recorded 159 Irrawaddy dolphins and 15 humpback dolphins. The marginal rise in the Irrawaddy population, from 154 in 2023, reflects the success of conservation initiatives spearheaded by the Chilika Development Authority. Divisional Forest Officer Amlan Nayak notes that clearing illegal fish enclosures has allowed thriving of these endangered dolphins, listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Chilika’s significance extends beyond numbers; it hosts the world’s highest single lagoon population of Irrawaddy dolphins.
Dolphin Diversity Across Odisha’s Coast
Beyond Bhitarkanika and Chilika, the census paints a broader picture of dolphin life along Odisha’s coastline. Berhampur Forest Division reported 13 humpback dolphins, while Puri and Balasore divisions each recorded 7 dolphins (bottlenose in Puri and Irrawaddy in Balasore). Bhadrak contributed 4 bottlenose dolphins to the tally. Conducted from January 27 to 29, 2025, using GPS technology and involving 10 teams of forest guards, residents, and environmentalists, the three-day effort showcases a collective spirit. The total count includes 498 humpback, 188 Irrawaddy, 16 bottlenose, and 8 spinner dolphins, illustrating the diversity that graces Odisha’s waters. This meticulous approach ensures accuracy and highlights the state’s commitment to scientific conservation.
Concerns Over Casualty of Dolphins in Odisha
While the figure of 710 dolphins is encouraging, challenges persist. Hemant Rout of the Gahirmatha Marine Turtle and Mangrove Conservation Society has voiced concerns over dolphin casualties caused by fishing nets, a threat that demands urgent attention. The Irrawaddy dolphin, critically endangered per the IUCN Red List, requires sustained protection to secure its future. Odisha’s progress in evicting illegal encroachments and regulating coastal activities has borne fruit, yet the journey ahead calls for vigilance. Enhanced awareness among fishing communities, stricter enforcement of wildlife laws, and continued habitat restoration are essential steps to ensure these marine ambassadors flourish.
A Unified Vision for Future of Dolphins in Odisha
The dolphin census of 2024-25 is more than a statistic; it is a reflection of Odisha’s ethos of tradition meeting progress, and nature is revered as a partner in development. From the mangrove forests of Bhitarkanika to the serene expanses of Chilika, the state’s people have rallied to protect their ecological heritage. This milestone invites us to celebrate Odisha’s unity and resilience while inspiring collective action for a sustainable tomorrow.
