Ranchi, Oct 11 (UNI) Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren has approved the proposal to establish the state's first Dolphin sanctuary along the Ganga in Sahibganj, paving the way for a major step in river wildlife conservation.
The proposal, cleared by the State Wildlife Board and now awaiting Cabinet approval, will make Sahibganj the country's second official dolphin sanctuary after Bihar's Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary in Bhagalpur.
Sahibganj, the only district in Jharkhand through which the Ganga flows, has recently emerged as one of the richest habitats of the endangered Gangetic river dolphin.
A June 2025 survey by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun, recorded an average of 2.88 dolphins per kilometre along the 89-km stretch between Rajmahal and Sahibganj, the highest density documented in any river section in India. The total estimated dolphin population in this zone stands at 256.
Experts attribute this success to improved river health driven by the Namami Gange programme. The Gangetic river dolphin, India's national aquatic animal, thrives only in clean, oxygen-rich waters and serves as a key indicator of river ecosystem health. The rising numbers in Sahibganj suggest better water quality and a recovering aquatic food chain.
The proposed sanctuary will cover the Ganga segment near Manjhi Kundi, about 10km from Sahibganj town, linking naturally with the dolphin-rich region of the Ganga in Bihar.
Once notified, the sanctuary is expected to receive an annual allocation of around four crore rupees for conservation and awareness programmes. The Forest Department has planned patrolling, scientific monitoring, and local engagement activities to ensure sustainable protection.
However, the project must secure a no-objection certificate from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), as the Sahibganj multi-modal port and navigation routes fall within the same river stretch. Officials are considering a zoning approach to keep the main shipping channel operational while protecting side channels and backwaters that serve as dolphin habitats.
The Sahibganj stretch supports a diverse aquatic ecosystem, making it ideal for eco-tourism. The WII has recommended setting up dolphin-viewing points and regulated boat tours to attract visitors.
The Forest Department aims to train local residents, especially fishermen, as eco-guides and river stewards, linking conservation with new livelihood opportunities.
Despite encouraging trends, challenges remain. Illegal fishing using fine-mesh nets continues in parts of the river, endangering dolphins and reducing their food base. Heavy boat traffic and dredging further disturb their breeding areas.
Earlier this month, a dead dolphin was found near Shobhapur village, raising concerns about human-related threats. The Forest Department has stepped up vigilance and involved community volunteers for regular monitoring.
Once formally declared, the Sahibganj Dolphin Sanctuary will mark Jharkhand's entry on India's aquatic conservation map and reflect the state's commitment to balancing commerce, tourism, and biodiversity protection along the Ganga.
The Gangetic river dolphin is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
UNI XC VAN PRS