Why was a Gangetic dolphin found dead in Kanpur?

A 10-foot-long Gangetic dolphin was found dead in the Ganga River near Kanpur, with pollution suspected as the cause.

What are authorities doing about pollution in the Ganga?

Authorities are increasing vigilance and have shut down tanneries ahead of the Magh Snan to prevent further pollution of the Ganga River.

Is the Gangetic dolphin an endangered species?

Yes, the Gangetic dolphin has been listed as an endangered species on the IUCN Red List since 1996 due to threats like pollution and habitat loss.

Home / Environment / Endangered Dolphin Found Dead: Kanpur Ganga Faces Pollution Crisis

Endangered Dolphin Found Dead: Kanpur Ganga Faces Pollution Crisis

3 Jan

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Summary

A 10-foot-long Gangetic dolphin was discovered deceased near Kanpur's Ganga bridge.
Pollution in the Ganga River is the suspected cause of the dolphin's death.
Tanneries were shut down as a precautionary measure ahead of the Magh Snan.

Endangered Dolphin Found Dead: Kanpur Ganga Faces Pollution Crisis

A 10-foot-long Gangetic dolphin was discovered deceased near the Ganga bridge in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, late on Friday evening. The carcass, estimated to be two to three days old and weighing approximately 3.5 quintals, was recovered from the river and handed over to the forest department.

Forest officials identified the animal as a Gangetic dolphin, an endangered species listed on the IUCN Red List since 1996. While the exact cause of death will be determined by a post-mortem examination, officials and local residents suspect that severe pollution in the Ganga River, leading to oxygen deficiency, may be responsible.

Authorities are intensifying efforts to maintain the cleanliness of the Ganga, particularly with the Magh Snan set to begin on January 3 in Prayagraj. As part of these preventive measures, tanneries in the region have been shut down since December 31.