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Mugger and turtle

24th June, 2024

Mugger and turtle

Source: Down to Earth

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

  • A fire at Pariej lake in Kheda district, Gujarat, led to the death of a juvenile mugger crocodile and several turtles, raising concerns about wildlife protection during development projects.
  • The incident underscores the importance of precautionary measures and inter-departmental coordination to protect vulnerable species and their habitats.

Details

Key Points

  • The fire at Pariej lake, Kheda district, resulted in the death of a mugger crocodile and turtles, both listed under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
  • Pariej lake, an important wetland and the largest waterbody in Kheda, had been undergoing desilting and dredging work when the fire broke out.

Mugger and turtle

  • Mugger crocodiles in the Charotar region have tripled in the past decade, highlighting the region's significance for this species.
  • The incident highlights the lack of coordination between the irrigation and forest departments, as the latter was not consulted about the development work at Pariej lake.
  • Gujarat's wildlife policy, including the 2019 rescue manual for mugger crocodiles, emphasizes protecting mating and nesting sites from disturbances.
  • The state’s environmental management issues are evident from past actions like removing muggers from the Narmada Dam in Kevadia Colony for development purposes.

Sources:

Down to Earth

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Which of the following statements about Pariej Lake and mugger crocodiles is/are correct?

1.Pariej Lake is the largest waterbody in Kheda district, Gujarat.

2.The recent fire at Pariej Lake resulted in the death of mugger crocodiles and turtles, which are listed under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.

3.The population of mugger crocodiles in the Charotar region has decreased over the past decade.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 1 and 3 only

D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A)