Boat tours along the Gujarat coast for dolphin watching may soon become a reality as the population of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins has remarkably increased. Recent census data indicates a surge from 221 dolphins in 2022 to 678, a 200% rise. This significant growth is expected to boost dolphin tourism, supported by a Memorandum of Understanding signed during this year’s Vibrant Gujarat summit.
The increase in dolphin numbers is particularly noticeable from Sir Creek to the Gulf of Khambhat, with over 170 dolphins observed in this stretch. In response to this positive trend, efforts to protect these vulnerable cetaceans are intensifying. The forest department is planning conservation campaigns and creating a task force that includes the Coast Guard and local police.
The aim is to educate the local population about dolphin conservation through awareness campaigns and to develop tourism guidelines that ensure sustainable interaction with these marine creatures. Locations such as Mithapur and Okha have been selected for their proximity to major tourist attractions like Dwarka Temple and Shivrajpur Beach, which have already drawn significant visitors.
Researchers have noted that the Indian Ocean humpback dolphins, a resident species in the region, are frequently sighted near the shore, especially in winter. Observations of dolphin breeding and care for calves along the Gujarat coast further highlight the importance of protecting this species. The state’s efforts are part of a broader initiative, Project Dolphin, aimed at conserving dolphins similar to the successful Project Tiger.
This surge in the dolphin population presents a unique opportunity for eco-tourism, combining conservation with economic benefits for the local communities. As Gujarat prepares to welcome more tourists, the emphasis will be on ensuring that the growth in tourism does not negatively impact the dolphins and their habitat, maintaining a delicate balance between nature and human activity.
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