Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista Gangetica Gnagetica)

Mohamed bin Zayed Species project number 15259700

Strengthening co-existence of fisheries with endangered river dolphins in Nepal's river system

Last remaining population of Ganges river dolphin is restricted in three river systems of Nepal with combined population estimated to be less than 30 individuals. This small population is threatened by development structures including resource competition between fisheries and river dolphin. Encroachment of deep pools by fisheries for their economic interest increased the risk of susceptibility to entanglement in fishing gear and changed underwater movement behaviors of river dolphin due to reduction of suitable habitats. With the purpose of strengthening co-existence of fisheries with endangered river dolphin this project (inception project) is proposed here to generate responsible local communities by diversifying livelihood strategies using locally available natural and socio economic resources, improving scientific knowledge to look more after their unique local freshwater ecosystems significance and strengthening youth lead institutional network for sustainable eco-tourism business. Deliveries of entrepreneur skills, alternative fishing strategies, improved scientific knowledge and institutional network, without any continues inputs in future, will reduce pressure over river system by the conservation and sustainable use of freshwater resources. This helps to recover last population of river dolphin by conserving remaining critical habitats of river dolphin in three major river systems of Nepal.