Pobitora, Sept 27:
In a major conservation initiative, as many as 104 hatchlings of three rare turtle species — the Black Softshell Turtle, Indian Tent Turtle, and Ganges Softshell Turtle — were released today at Hadug Beel inside Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Mayong, Morigaon district.
The joint effort was carried out by the Kamrup District Administration, the Haigrib Madhab Mandir Committee of Hajo, and the Forest Department, with scientific support from experts and wildlife authorities.
A specialized team led by Dr. Panchami Sharma, Pathologist, Assam State Zoo, renowned herpetologist Dr. Jayaditya Purkayastha, and biologist Pranjal Mahananda transported the hatchlings from the temple pond of Haigrib Madhab Mandir to Pobitora. The release was facilitated by the Range Officer of Pobitora WLS.
According to forest officials, the turtles were first quarantined and cared for by expert veterinarians at the State Zoo before being shifted for release.
“Hadug Beel is a perennial water body, rich in aquatic biodiversity, and is well-connected with rivers like the Brahmaputra, Pokoriya, and Kolong during flood season. This makes it an ideal habitat for ensuring the survival of these rare turtle species,” an official said.
The initiative aims to strengthen in-situ conservation efforts and gradually improve the conservation status of these species — many of which are listed as Critically Endangered or Endangered — towards a safer category like “Least Concern.”
Hadug Beel and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary have recently gained attention for their strict protection measures, which have significantly enhanced the diversity of turtles, fish, and other aquatic life.
Conservationists have welcomed this initiative as a crucial step in restoring Assam’s natural heritage and securing the future of its threatened turtle species.