02 SEP 2025 | New Delhi
The Dhamra Port Company Ltd. (DPCL), a subsidiary of Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd., in collaboration with the Adani Foundation, has announced a major research initiative on the Olive Ridley Sea Turtles along the Odisha coast. The project is being carried out under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) scheme with the Society of Wildlife Odisha (PCCF – Wildlife) and the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun.
The project aims to explore the spatial use, near-shore movements, and migratory behavior of Olive Ridley turtles, with a strong focus on addressing conservation challenges at critical nesting sites. Odisha’s coastline hosts the world’s largest nesting congregation of Olive Ridley turtles, including three major rookeries – Gahirmatha, Devi, and Rushikulya.
The Gahirmatha rookery is recognized as the largest sea turtle rookery globally. However, in recent decades, cyclones and coastal erosion have significantly altered nesting patterns, raising urgent concerns for conservation.
Key Focus Areas
- Investigating fine-scale use of nearshore waters and inter-rookery movements of turtles.
- Studying post-breeding migration, diving behavior, and the role of oceanic currents.
- Assessing the impact of coastal geomorphology changes on nesting beaches.
- Developing management strategies to mitigate erosion and preserve critical nesting habitats.
Why It Matters
This collaborative research is expected to provide updated insights into the ecology of Olive Ridley turtles and help frame effective conservation strategies. The findings will play a vital role in safeguarding nesting sites, improving beach quality, and ensuring the long-term survival of this endangered species.
