World’s Largest Turtle Nesting Site Safeguarded with Advanced Measures

Odisha has intensified efforts to safeguard the Olive Ridley turtles, an endangered species, during their annual nesting season along the state’s coastline. Recognized as the world’s largest mass nesting site, Odisha’s beaches like Gahirmatha, Rushikulya, and Devi River Mouth host lakhs of turtles every year.

Enhanced Protection Measures

• Round-the-Clock Vigilance:
  • The Indian Coast Guard, in collaboration with the Odisha Forest Department, has launched 24/7 coastal surveillance to ensure the turtles’ safe nesting and hatching.
  • Approximately 60 patrol ships and 12 aircraft monitor the 480-kilometer coastline, focusing on critical nesting sites.
• Zero Tolerance for Illegal Activities:
  • Strict enforcement of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, ensures that fishing activities are banned within 20 kilometers of nesting zones during the breeding season.

Key Nesting Grounds

• Gahirmatha Beach:
  • Located in the Gahirmatha Marine Wildlife Sanctuary, this beach alone accounts for over 4 lakh nesting turtles annually, solidifying its reputation as a global conservation hotspot.
• Rushikulya River Mouth:
  • Witnessing an increase in nesting numbers, the site attracted over 1.5 lakh turtles in 2024, according to the Odisha Forest Department.

Conservation Initiatives

• Community Engagement:
  • Awareness programs educate fishermen about turtle-safe practices, resulting in a 20% reduction in accidental captures.
  • Eco-tourism activities are also organized to involve local communities in conservation efforts.
• Technological Interventions:
  • Drones equipped with thermal imaging and real-time tracking systems monitor turtle movements, ensuring round-the-clock safety.

Global Recognition and Future Goals

• UNESCO Efforts:
  • The Odisha government is lobbying for UNESCO World Heritage Site status for Gahirmatha, enhancing its global conservation appeal.
• Sustainability Goals:
  • Plans to establish artificial incubation centers and habitat restoration projects aim to boost hatchling survival rates, aligning with India’s biodiversity conservation goals.

Visitor Information

• Best Viewing Season:
  • Between November and March, visitors can witness the breathtaking mass nesting, known as Arribada, where lakhs of turtles come ashore to lay eggs.
• For More Details:
  • Visit the Odisha Forest Department or Odisha Tourism for updates on conservation efforts and eco-tourism guidelines.

Odisha’s vigilant measures underscore its commitment to preserving the natural heritage and ensuring the survival of one of Earth’s most ancient marine species.