West Bengal has recorded the third-largest dolphin population in India, according to a national survey.
The state follows Uttar Pradesh, which has 2,397 dolphins, and Bihar, with 2,220. Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the report at Gir National Park.
The "Population of River Dolphins in India 2024" report estimates India’s total dolphin count at 6,327. The survey, conducted between 2021 and 2024, covered eight states and three major river systems— the Ganga, the Brahmaputra, and the Beas.
The national dolphin survey was carried out under Project Dolphin, launched by the Prime Minister on 15 August 2020.
West Bengal is home to 815 river dolphins, including two species: the Gangetic dolphin (Platanista gangetica) and the Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris). The Gangetic dolphin is India’s national aquatic animal, while the Irrawaddy dolphin can survive in both freshwater and saltwater.
The study in Bengal covered a stretch of 2,366 km along the Ganga and the Sunderbans. It surveyed 12 rivers, estimating a minimum of 665 dolphins and a maximum of 870. The final estimated count stands at 815.
Experts say this is a positive sign for Bengal’s river ecosystem. Nilanjan Mallick, additional principal chief conservator of forests and director of the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve, said the findings reflect the success of conservation efforts. However, he noted that accidental entanglement in fishing nets remains a major threat to dolphins. The state government is working to raise awareness among fishermen.
The survey collected data on dolphin numbers, habitat conditions, human activities, and other aquatic life. Experts analysed this data to assess the health of the river ecosystem.
The findings will help identify areas with stable dolphin populations. Authorities aim to balance conservation with infrastructure development. Mallick stressed that any new construction along the rivers must avoid harming the dolphins.
The World Bank is co-funding a project to upgrade river infrastructure while protecting marine life. Officials from the forest department, WWF-India, and the Central Pollution Control Board are working together to ensure sustainable development.
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