Respite for Gulf of Mannar’s coral reefs as marine heatwave subsides | The New Indian Express
The marine heatwave in the Gulf of Mannar has subsided, with sea surface temperatures dropping by 3°C, providing some respite for the coral reefs. However, officials fear significant damage has already occurred, with mass bleaching reported in mid-April. An underwater survey will soon assess the extent of the impact. Despite annual bleaching during summer, the region's corals are known for their resilience, but the long-term effects remain uncertain
NF Railway installs Canopy Bridges to facilitate movement of Hoolock Gibbons in Assam | India Today NE
Northeast Frontier Railway, in collaboration with the Assam State Forest Department and the Wildlife Institute of India, is installing Canopy Bridges in the Gibbon Sanctuary, Jorhat district, Assam. The bridges are designed to ensure the gibbons' safety by facilitating safe movement across railway tracks, incorporating natural elements over time. This initiative is part of a broader policy to protect wildlife in areas where railway lines intersect with natural habitats.
Assam: Customs Seize Nearly 28 kg of Ivory in Assam in a Major Wildlife Smuggling Bust | Sentinel Assam
In a major wildlife smuggling bust, Assam customs seized nearly 28 kilograms of ivory and arrested a suspect involved in the illegal trade. Supported by police and forest officials, this operation highlights the effectiveness of recent Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 amendments. The efforts reflect a strong commitment to protecting endangered species and curbing illegal trade.
Mangrove Forest: Key tiger habitat swamped by deadly Bangladesh cyclone | Times of India
A deadly cyclone has submerged the Sundarbans, a crucial Bengal tiger habitat, with seawater for an unprecedented duration, raising concerns for endangered wildlife. Forest experts in Bangladesh fear the loss of freshwater ponds and the impact on smaller animals like deer. The Sundarbans, regularly hit by monsoon storms, experienced unusual flooding attributed to climate change, posing significant threats to its dynamic ecosystem.
Plans to explore oil and gas in biodiversity-rich Wadge Bank raises concerns | Mongabay
Plans to explore oil and gas in the biodiversity-rich Wadge Bank off southern India have raised concerns among experts and local fish workers. This region, crucial for its marine biodiversity and fishing resources, faces potential ecological damage and livelihood disruption in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Environmentalists warn that exploration could lead to pollution and habitat destruction, threatening the fragile ecosystem and exacerbating poverty. Local campaigns seek to halt exploration to safeguard biodiversity and fishing livelihoods.