Bhagalpur : Bihar’s Gangetic dolphin population has increased significantly over the past 27 years, with estimates indicating a rise from around 95 dolphins to nearly 200 in the Bhagalpur region. However, conservationists say the species continues to face threats from fishing activity, changing river conditions and increasing human movement on the Ganga.
The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary in Bhagalpur is spread across a roughly 71-km stretch between Sultanganj and Bateshwar Sthan. Gangetic dolphins are found at several points along this stretch and are considered an important indicator of the health of the river ecosystem.
National Dolphin Day is observed on October 5 every year to raise awareness about river dolphins and their conservation.
Fishing Nets Remain A Major Threat
According to conservation-related reports, eight to nine dolphins were estimated to die every year in Bihar in 2022, with fishing activity and entanglement in nets among the major concerns.
An Official has highlighted the use of dolphin oil as fishing bait as another concern. There is also a traditional misconception in some communities that dolphin oil can help treat arthritis, though such claims have no established medical basis.
One reported incident in March 2022 illustrated the danger. A female dolphin was found dead near an old Durga temple in Ismailpur, Navgachia, with a plastic rope tied around its mouth and connected to a bamboo stake. The animal was believed to have become trapped after being caught or restrained by fishermen.
Dams, Siltation And Reduced Flow
Fishing is not the only challenge. Dams and barrages, reduced river flow and increasing siltation can alter the habitat on which Gangetic dolphins depend.
The species uses sound and echolocation to navigate and locate prey. Conservationists have therefore also raised concerns over increasing boat and ship movement in the river.
Other Official estimated that around 200 dolphins are currently found between Sultanganj and Kahalgaon. He said the population appears relatively stable but expressed concern over the comparatively lower number of calves and the increasing presence of male dolphins.
Official Dolphin Count Awaits Fresh Survey
Official figures also show an increase, although the latest government count available is several years old.
According to Bhagalpur Divisional Forest Officer Ashutosh Raj, the 2018 official count recorded 188 dolphins, while a 2021 survey recorded 207. No newer official population figure has yet been released.
A formal wildlife survey was conducted in January-February 2026 by a wildlife team associated with the Wildlife Institute of India. The report is awaited and is expected to provide a more recent assessment of the dolphin population.
Other estimates have placed the population at around 215 or even 250, but these figures vary according to the survey method and area covered.
Informal Dolphin-Watching Spots
Bhagalpur does not currently have a formally developed dolphin-viewing point inside the sanctuary. However, dolphins are often spotted around Manik Sarkar Ghat, Sultanganj and the Teen Pahadi area near Kahalgaon.
Teen Pahadi, located around 30 km from Bhagalpur headquarters, is surrounded by hills, temples and caves and is also associated with boating activity. Dolphins can sometimes be seen surfacing in the surrounding waters, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
A Research scholar has suggested developing dedicated dolphin-viewing points at such locations to promote awareness and responsible tourism.
Conservation And Tourism Plans
The forest department is planning facilities including a nature interpretation centre, watchtower and boating infrastructure at Sultanganj. Officials are also looking for suitable land for these facilities.
Dolphin Mitras and conservation teams are involved in awareness and rescue efforts, particularly when dolphins become stranded in shallow stretches of the river during changes in water levels.
A 2025 estimate placed India’s river dolphin population at around 6,327 across 28 rivers in eight states. Bihar was estimated to have about 2,220 dolphins, distributed across the Ganga, Gandak, Kosi, Mahananda, Kamla-Balan and Bagmati rivers.
A Species Under Pressure Despite Population Growth
Gangetic dolphins, locally known as “soons” or “souns”, are freshwater aquatic mammals known for their elongated snouts and distinctive appearance. They feed mainly on small fish and are generally not considered harmful to humans.
Their rising numbers in parts of Bihar indicate progress in conservation, but the species remains vulnerable to human activity. Fishing nets, changing river flow, siltation and increasing boat traffic can affect both dolphins and their habitat.
For Bhagalpur, the challenge now is not only to maintain the population recorded in recent surveys but also to ensure that the Ganga stretch supporting these dolphins remains suitable for their long-term survival.
