Workshop on Marine Megafauna Conservation Held in Visakhapatnam

A State-level workshop on reducing bycatch mortality of marine megafauna, including sea turtles, was organised here on Monday by the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department in collaboration with the TREE Foundation.

The workshop focused on conservation protocols, action plans, and field-level methodologies to protect endangered marine species, with particular emphasis on sea turtles, ahead of the upcoming breeding and nesting season. Participants included officials from the Fisheries Department, Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police, and Forest Department, as well as fishermen and members of the Sea Turtle Protection Force (STPF).

Delivering the keynote address, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests P.V. Chalapathi Rao underscored the need for strong interdepartmental coordination to ensure effective marine conservation. He emphasized the importance of adequate sea-going assets and robust offshore surveillance by enforcement agencies to safeguard marine megafauna.

TREE Foundation Chairperson Supraja Dharini highlighted strategies to reduce mortality among marine megafauna, with a special focus on sea turtles, and stressed the role of preventive measures and community participation.

The programme included presentations on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and department-wise checklists for marine wildlife protection. A documentary titled Every Turtle Matters was screened, highlighting the ecological significance of sea turtles and the threats they face.