Rushikulya River Mouth: A New Biodiversity Heritage Site

The Rushikulya river mouth, a renowned mass nesting ground for the endangered Olive Ridley turtles in Odisha's Ganjam district, is set to be designated a Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS). This significant development follows the written consent from the Ramagada and Palibandh panchayats, encompassing the area from Potagada to Bateshwar.

The Odisha State Biodiversity Board organized a meeting where the concept of BHS was explained, assuring that the status would not impede traditional community practices but rather bolster ecological sustainability. The proposal, championed by the Berhampur divisional forest officer, highlights the unique ecosystem and cultural importance of the 747-hectare site.

This area serves as a crucial habitat not only for thousands of Olive Ridley turtles during their nesting season but also for migratory birds in winter and various dolphin species. Notably, the region saw over 9 lakh Olive Ridley turtles lay eggs last year, and 13 Irrawaddy dolphins were sighted recently during a census.

Community involvement, particularly from the local fishermen who actively protect these species, is central to the conservation strategy. This initiative aims to safeguard biodiversity outside conventional protected areas, with Rushikulya river mouth identified as a prime location for such a designation.