Thoothukudi (Tamil Nadu) [India], March 28 (HBTV): The Tiruchendur Forest Department in Thoothukudi district has seized approximately 2,000 turtle eggs from the beach, marking a significant step in the conservation of sea turtles in the region.

Olive ridley turtles, found in abundance in the Gulf of Mannar, have seen a steady decline in population in recent years. However, government awareness campaigns have contributed to a slight increase in their numbers.

Every year, from December to March, sea turtles come ashore to lay eggs along coastal areas from Kanyakumari to Tiruchendur, with key nesting sites in Manapadu, Periya Thazhi, and Kulasekarapattinam. To protect the eggs, forest department staff collect them and transfer them to a special hatchery, where they are incubated before the young turtles are released into the sea.

The recovery of 2,000 eggs in Tiruchendur is seen as a positive sign. During the nesting season, turtle guards are deployed to ensure the eggs are collected and protected. The ongoing conservation efforts emphasize the importance of community participation and government initiatives in safeguarding marine life.

Meanwhile, earlier this week, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) apprehended two individuals in possession of 65 Indian Roofed Turtles and Spotted Pond Turtles.

In a letter dated March 24, the CBI stated: ‘A team of CBI, along with Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) officials, acting on specific information, apprehended two accused who were in possession of 65 Indian Roofed Turtles and Spotted Pond Turtles. A case was registered by CBI against the accused under Section 51 read with Sections 39, 44, 48A, 49, and 49B of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, for possession, transport, and trade of species covered under Schedule I of the Act.’

The CBI confirmed that 50 Indian Roofed Turtles (Pangshura tecta) and 15 Spotted Pond Turtles (Geoclemys hamiltonii) were recovered from the accused.

‘Since it was a seizure of live animals, they were handed over to the Delhi Zoo for safe upkeep,’ the agency added. (ANI)