Title

Conservation of the Endangered Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica) in Koshi Tappu, Nepal

Introduction

The Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica), categorized as endangered globally and critically endangered in Nepal, is a flagship species of freshwater ecosystems. With less than 20 individuals surviving in Nepal, urgent conservation action is required. This project addresses threats to dolphins in the Koshi River by combining ecological restoration, community participation, and cross-border collaboration with India.

Funding Organization

The project is funded by the Van Tienhoven Foundation’s Small Grant Program, Netherlands, with a support of Euro 10,000.

Project Period

The project runs for 19 months (June 2022 – December 2023), including preparatory work, 16 months of field implementation, and a final month for reporting.

Objective

The project aims to:

• Protect and conserve the Ganges River Dolphin and its habitat.
• Reduce harmful fishing practices and human interferences.
• Promote alternative livelihood options for river-dependent communities.
• Strengthen cross-border cooperation between Nepal and India for dolphin conservation.

Project Area

The project is implemented in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve and the Koshi Barrage, a transboundary wetland of international significance (Ramsar site). This area is a critical dolphin habitat but faces intense human pressures from fishing and river modification.

Impact of the Project

The project enhanced ecological knowledge and conservation awareness among fisher communities (Malaha, Bote, Majhi, Musahar), formed youth eco-clubs, and promoted dolphin-friendly livelihood options such as fishpond management. It advocated for integrating dolphin conservation into local policies and facilitated Nepal–India dialogue for a joint Memorandum of Understanding. Key outcomes include:

• Increased community sensitization and reduced dolphin killings.
• Improved cooperation with Indian stakeholders for transboundary habitat protection.
• Strengthened conservation networks with NTNC and Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve.
• Contribution to Nepal’s Dolphin Conservation Action Plan (2021–2025).

Ultimately, the project safeguarded an apex freshwater species while promoting biodiversity-based livelihoods and ecosystem resilience in the Koshi River system.