Marine turtle conservation and management: A survey of the situation in Orissa 1981/82 and 1982/83

Abstract

One of the most spectacular sea turtle activity is the mass emergence (arribadas) of the Olive Ridley Lepidocheli^s olivacea along the north Orissa Coast, more specifically along the Gahirmatha Beach. The mass capture and transport of live olive ridley from the nesting beaches of Orissa and West Bengal to Calcutta and other markets have been reported and Such exploitation, despite the endangered status of the species. Incidental catch in fishing gear also accounts for the death of several hundred turtles during their nesting season. It was estimated that the turtle meat and eggs worth 4 crores of rupees was sold every year in Calcutta markets and also exported to foreign countries. To save the progeny of the olive ridley turtle, capture of turtle and collection of turtle eggs are prohibited and the officials of Government of West Bengal and Orissa meet together in the arranged meeting and discussed about the steps to be taken for protecting the marine turtles in the sea.