As part of conservation efforts, recently 12 gharial crocodiles were released into the Mahanadi River at Satkosia Gorge, bringing the total number of reptiles in the river to 35. This initiative will help strengthen the wild population of this critically endangered species. Here is everything you need to know.
12 Gharial Crocodiles Released In Mahanadi River
A significant step forward in conservation.
On 29 March 2026, 12 gharials were released into the Mahanadi River at Satkosia Gorge. Kudos to the dedicated team of Nandankanan, with support from Satkosia and Mahanadi Wildlife Divisions, for the successful release of… pic.twitter.com/W7awyLhxan
— Prem Kumar Jha (@Prem_CWLWOdisha) March 30, 2026
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) of Odisha, Prem Kumar Jha, recently took to his official X account to share an amazing news. As part of conservation efforts, on March 29, 2026, 12 gharials were released into the Mahanadi River at Satkosia Gorge. A gharial is a critically endangered, fish-eating crocodile native to rivers of the Indian subcontinent. These reptiles are known for their long and thin snouts.
According to Prameya News, the addition of these 12 gharials has brought the total number in the river to 35. The crocodiles were reared for an extended period at Nandankanan Zoological Park before being gradually reintroduced into their natural habitat.
Gharials Fitted With Tracker To Monitor Movement
As per a report by Prameya News, each of these gharials was fitted with a tracking device to monitor movement. Moreover, the release was carried out with the help of forest officials from the Nayagarh Forest Division and a specialised team responsible for transporting the crocodiles from Nandankanan Zoological Park. Reportedly, the conservation project began in 2019 and aims to restore the natural balance and increase the population of gharials in the Satkosia stretch of the river.
Prem Kumar Jha also appreciated the support from Satkosia and Mahanadi Wildlife Divisions for the successful release. According to him, this initiative will help strengthen the wild population of this critically endangered species.
Also Read: Chennai-Bengaluru Expressway To Get 90 M Wildlife Overpass To Enable Safe Animal Movement
Authorities are now monitoring the species. What do you think of this initiative?
Cover Image Courtesy: @Prem_CWLWOdisha/ X
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Are gharial crocodiles endangered?
Yes, gharials are a critically endangered species.
How many gharial crocodiles are in the Mahanadi River?
There are now 35 gharial crocodiles in the Mahanadi River.
Why were 12 crocodiles released in the Mahanadi River?
12 crocodiles were released in the Mahanadi River to boost the population and strengthen conservation efforts.