53 Gharials released into Kuno National Park river in conservation Effort

In a bid to conserve the critically endangered gharial species, 53 individuals were recently released into the river at Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh. The species, found primarily in deep, fast-flowing rivers, has seen a decline of over 94% globally since the 1950s.

Gharials play a vital role in maintaining river ecosystem health and biodiversity. However, they face threats from sand mining, hunting, and human disturbance. Conservation efforts are underway, with the species protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

A recent survey recorded 3,037 gharials across the Ganga river basin, with the most numbers in Chambal. Experts warn that one disease outbreak or major infrastructure project could threaten the species’ survival. The release is part of efforts to restore the gharial’s historic range and strengthen wild populations.