Tamil Nadu’s forest department has released nearly 48,250 Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings into the sea during the current nesting season, with Chennai recording the highest number of nest identifications, egg collections, and hatchling releases among all coastal districts. Officials said more than 74,000 eggs were safely shifted to hatcheries to protect them from predators and human disturbances.
The conservation initiative is being carried out across multiple coastal districts including Chennai, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, and Mayiladuthurai. Chennai’s coastline, especially Marina and Besant Nagar beaches, has remained a major nesting hub for the endangered Olive Ridley turtles this season.
Forest officials and volunteers continue to monitor hatcheries and safely release hatchlings into the Bay of Bengal as part of ongoing wildlife protection efforts. The Olive Ridley turtle is classified as a vulnerable species and receives legal protection under Indian wildlife laws.
News as Reported.
