[Watch] Odisha Guv Witnesses Seaward Sojourn Of Turtle Hatchlings From Rushikulya Rookery

Berhampur: Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati visited the Rushikulya river mouth in Odisha’s Ganjam district on Sunday to witness the seaward journey of Olive Ridley hatchlings from the rookery after emerging from the eggs.

“Visited Podempeta in Ganjam District, a key nesting site for the endangered Olive Ridley turtles. Witnessing the mass nesting and hatching was a truly awe-inspiring experience,” the Governor wrote on X.

During the visit, he also reviewed ongoing conservation efforts with local officials and emphasised the importance of community involvement to ensure the species’ long-term survival. “The dedication of forest staff, volunteers, and local stakeholders is commendable. Special appreciation to the District Collector and Divisional Forest Officer for their exemplary work in protecting this endangered species,” he added.

Mass hatching of turtles began on Thursday along a 5-km stretch of the beach between Podampeta and Bateswar as thousands of hatchlings emerged from sandy pits and crawled towards the sea. It is expected to continue for another two to three days.

This year, a record number of hatchlings are expected, with almost 9 lakh Olive Ridley turtles nesting at Rushikulya — 6.98 lakh in the first phase from February 16 to 23 and around 2.5 lakh from March 22 to 27 in the second phase when the nesting area extended to a 10 km stretch.

Since the hatching takes place in the night and the hatchlings are attracted by lights, the Forest department has asked industrial units, Gopalpur Port and civic authorities in Ganjam to dim the street lights at night to ensure that the baby turtles are not disoriented by the illumination. Volunteers are also collecting hatchlings, which get diverted on the beach, in buckets and releasing them into the sea.