Experts warned on Tuesday that pollution and illegal hunting threaten the Gangetic dolphin. At a Patna University programme, Gopal Sharma said, "Growing pollution, illegal poaching and disruption of the aquatic ecosystem are affecting dolphin populations." Students used posters to show support for cleaner rivers and the protection of these mammals.
Patna: Pollution, illegal hunting and growing ecological imbalance in rivers are putting the Gangetic dolphin -- an indicator of river health -- under increasing threat, experts warned at a National Dolphin Day programme organised at the zoology department of Patna University on Tuesday.Former scientist and joint director, ministry of environment, forest and climate change, Gopal Sharma, the main speaker, said the survival of the endangered river mammal depended on restoring the health of its natural habitat. Through a slide presentation, he highlighted the present status of the Gangetic dolphin, threats to its survival and measures needed for its conservation."Growing pollution, illegal poaching and disruption of the aquatic ecosystem are affecting dolphin populations," Sharma said, stressing the need for cleaner rivers, collective action and sustained public awareness.Presiding over the programme, department head Parimal Kumar Khan said the Gangetic dolphin was a symbol of the health of the river ecosystem and educational institutions and young people had a crucial role in its protection.Students used posters and slogans to underline the conservation message, including "Ganga ki shaan, nadiyon ki pehchan -- Gangetic dolphin ka sanrakshan, hamara swabhiman". They also took a pledge for "clean rivers, safe dolphins and a prosperous India".Faculty members Anupama Kumari, G B Chand, Gajendra Kumar and Mayank, besides a large number of students, attended the programme. G B Chand proposed the vote of thanks.