IIT Madras Researchers improved Dolphin population to Chilika Lake; Restored Degrading Ecosystem

IIT Madras Researchers have done a great job in the Chilika Lake Biodiversity restoration project. The ecosystem was considered as one of the threatened list (Montreux record). 

IIT Madras’ restoration project has been beneficial in increasing the pisciculture activities and expanding several folds of fish population. This has put an impact on thousands of fishermen around Chilika. 

The 4000 year old, chilika lagoon has not only seen an increase in the number of fishes but the Irrawaddy Dolphins as well.

The root cause of the degradation was understood using geotechnical, hydraulic and satellite imagery studies framing a different methodology causing minimum damage to the lake ecosystem. As per the tests conducted, the shifting of the mouth of the lake towards the NorthEast caused subsequent reduction of the seawater into the lake. This is the reason why the entire hydrodynamic of the lake was affected. 

The lake ecosystem serves as the only supportive livelihood for the fishermen and also acts as drainage for the Mahanadi River. 

Mr R. Sundaravadivelu, who spearheaded the project, explained that Chilika Lake was restored with a cost of INR 10 crores by opening the mouth and other work. The work was completed in 6 months of duration.

This has resulted in increased fish catching business bringing in to the amount of INR 100 Cr and added revenue of INR 35 Cr due to tourism.