15 Apr 2016 Sapta Koshi, Nepal, Indian Sub-continent Cetaceans | Mammals
Understanding Populations of Most Endangered Ganges River Dolphins (Platanista gangetica) in Nepal and Initiating Local Efforts to Conserve Remaining Population
Examining Ecological Factors Influencing Distribution, Abundance and Surfacing Behaviours of Endangered Dolphins in Major River Systems of Nepal
With the purpose of strengthening co-existence of fisheries with dolphin conservation, this project will generate basic science which serves as benchmark for significant conservation actions in future. Deliveries of the project assist concerned authorities for effective dolphin and its prey management, secure tenure rights, and provision of alternative livelihoods for fishers which reconcile dolphin conservation and local needs
This project will deliver robust estimates of river dolphin population for two (including Narayani- only for estimates) river systems in Nepal by improving survey techniques. This will help the concerned authorities (Government line Ministries, IUCN, WWF and NTNC) in understanding the status of the remaining population in Nepal and take further conservation and management actions promptly. Dolphin movement and behaviours will be explored to identify and conserve the remaining critical natural habitats by managing river dependents. This helps directly to minimize pressure from river dependents or to manage conflicts between fisheries and river dolphin. Biological and catching preferences from stock and fisheries assessment helps to prepare river specific seasonal fishers management strategies. Livelihoods diversification approach can significantly help to achieve a sustainable and wise use of the aquatic resources in Nepal’s river systems.