31 gharial hatchlings released into Gandak

Bettiah: A major boost to gharial conservation efforts in Bihar came with the successful hatching of 31 gharials from the first nest of the 2026 breeding season near Ratwal bridge in Bagaha range of Bettiah forest division. The hatchlings were later released into the Gandak river.

The release programme was attended by conservator of forests Gaurav Ojha, divisional forest officer Pankaj Kumar, a range officer, forest department personnel and representatives of the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI).

“The nest was located during intensive field surveys conducted jointly by the Wildlife Trust of India and the Bihar forest department during April and May. So far, five gharial nests have been identified in the Gandak river during the current breeding season, and all are being regularly monitored and protected,” said Gaurav.

The gharial is listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and receives the highest legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

Officials said the successful hatching reflects the effectiveness of ongoing conservation measures undertaken jointly by the forest department and WTI. Conservationists consider the Gandak river one of the country’s most important breeding habitats for the species.

According to official estimates, the river now supports more than 1,000 gharials, with numbers steadily rising in recent years. Officials said the latest release offers fresh hope for the long-term survival of the rare riverine reptile.