Rising water levels in the Ganga around Bihar's Bhagalpur stretch have triggered a noticeable increase in aquatic wildlife activity. Across the river corridor extending from Sultanganj to Bateshwar Sthan, endangered Gangetic dolphins are frequently surfacing and drawing spectators along the riverbanks. As India's second dedicated Ganga sanctuary area, Bhagalpur has become an active observation point where local residents and visitors gather across various ghats to catch sight of these protected creatures.
Prime River Ghats and Best Viewing Timings
Spectators keen on spotting dolphins find the highest probability of sightings during specific windows of the day. The creatures appear most actively from sunrise until 10:00 am, and later in the afternoon after 3:00 pm. During these hours, dolphins surface periodically at intervals of approximately two to five minutes before diving back beneath the currents.
Sightings are concentrated around several prominent riverfront locations across the district. The highest frequency of dolphin movements is registered at Sultanganj, Tilakpur, Budhanath, Adampur, Seedhi Ghat, Barari Ghat, Babupur Ghat, and Bateshwar Ghat. Visitors regularly line these riverbanks to watch the animals play across the river currents.
Proposal for Sensor-Equipped Buzzers on River Boats
To shield the animals from potential accidents with watercraft, local forestry officials are preparing protective measures that have not previously been deployed in the region. According to forest authorities, a formal proposal has already been submitted to the higher department to install a specialized alert mechanism, known as a buzzer, on boats operating in the Ganga.
The proposed instrument functions through sensor detection. Whenever a vessel approaches a dolphin, the built-in sensor identifies the animal's proximity and triggers an audible alert. This prompt warning allows boatmen to react immediately by altering the navigation path or reducing speed to glide past gently. Implementing this technology aims to ensure that river traffic does not inflict accidental collisions or physical trauma on the endangered species.
Population Growth Trends and Recent Surveys
Field data collected over recent years indicates an upward trend in local dolphin numbers within this protected river stretch. In the 2022 census, the counted population stood at around 210 individuals, encompassing mature dolphins as well as calves. This represents a solid increase from the 2018 tally, which had recorded approximately 178 individuals, reflecting the positive impact of local conservation measures.
DFO Ashutosh Raj shared that a fresh survey was conducted in February. While the comprehensive official report containing the newly verified figures is still awaited, preliminary observations indicate a visible rise in the count of dolphin calves inhabiting the river waters.
Planned Watching Centre and Wildlife Distress Reporting
To provide a structured and harmless sightseeing experience for visitors, DFO Ashutosh Raj announced that a formal plan has been forwarded to establish a dedicated dolphin watching centre. Once constructed, the facility will allow enthusiasts to observe the creatures safely without disturbing their natural habitat.
Alongside the infrastructure initiatives, forest officials have urged citizens along the river to assist in preservation efforts. Any individual who spots an injured or stranded dolphin or other aquatic animal is requested to immediately notify the forest department, ensuring that rapid medical intervention can be administered to save the animal's life.
