Record 1.85 crore Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings return to sea at Odisha's Gahirmatha

A historic mass hatching of Olive Ridley turtles has taken place at Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary in Odisha this year, marking an environmental success in India's coastal conservation efforts.

In a significant event over the past three days, approximately 1.85 crore Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings have reportedly embarked on their journey from the shores of Gahirmatha to the ocean.

As per reports, the mass nesting of the Olive Ridley turtles began on March 5, with an astounding 5,03,719 turtles laying eggs across the beaches of Agaranasi-2, Satabhaya, and Pentha.

Vigilant Conservation Efforts

To protect these young turtles as they made their way to the sea, the local Forest Department has reportedly been on high alert. Measures include the enforcement of bans on illegal fishing activities in the area. 

The Rajnagar Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) has expressed optimism by anticipating that the hatching process will continue for another two to four days.

Increasing Hatchling Numbers

Officials are also optimistic that this year’s hatching numbers will surpass previous records, indicative of successful conservation efforts. 

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"The weather is very conducive this year. Around 1.85 crore Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings have embarked on their journey from the shores of Gahirmatha to the ocean in the last three days. We are expecting that the process will continue for the next two to four days. We are also hopeful that this year’s hatching numbers will surpass previous records," said Rajnagar DFO Sudarshan Gopinath Jadhav.