Berhampur Forest Division Launches Awareness Campaign for Olive Ridley Turtle Nesting
In anticipation of the imminent mass nesting of endangered Olive Ridley turtles near the Rushikulya river mouth in Ganjam district, the Berhampur forest division organized a comprehensive awareness programme on Thursday. The event, held at Purunabandh, aimed to engage local communities and fishermen in conservation efforts, highlighting the critical role of community participation in protecting these marine species.
Educational Outreach and Community Involvement
The programme saw active participation from students and faculty members of the department of marine science at Berhampur University and the department of zoology at Ganjam College. Speakers at the event emphasized the ecological significance of Olive Ridley turtles, which visit the Rushikulya coast annually for mass nesting, and Irrawaddy dolphins, frequently sighted in the area. These species serve as vital indicators of a healthy marine ecosystem, underscoring the need for vigilant protection during the sensitive nesting period.
Key officials, including DFO (Berhampur) Sunny Khokhar, ACFs Sasmita Biswal and Dibya Shankar Behera, along with marine science faculty member Suchismita Srichandan and Ganjam College lecturer Mahendra Sethi, addressed the gathering. They urged locals to safeguard the turtles and their nesting grounds, stressing that community-led initiatives are essential for successful conservation. To further promote awareness, a signature campaign involving students was organized, encouraging collective action towards environmental stewardship.
Preparations and Current Nesting Activity
Official sources reported that sporadic nesting has already been observed for several days, with thousands of turtles congregating near the coast in preparation for the mass nesting event. In readiness, approximately 7 kilometers of beach have been meticulously cleaned and fenced to create a protected environment for the turtles. This proactive measure aims to minimize human interference and ensure a safe habitat for the nesting process, which is crucial for the survival of this endangered species.
The awareness programme not only educated attendees about the importance of Olive Ridley turtles but also fostered a sense of responsibility among local stakeholders. By involving academic institutions and community members, the Berhampur forest division seeks to build a sustainable framework for conservation that can be replicated in other regions facing similar environmental challenges.
