After decades of decline, a rare freshwater turtle species is making a cautious return to the Ganga River, thanks to a focused conservation effort aiming to restore the river’s fragile biodiversity. The red-crowned roofed turtle (Batagur kachuga), once abundant in the northern plains of India, has been reintroduced into its natural habitat in a move that blends science, sustainability, and hope.
Once listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, this species faced steep population drops due to habitat destruction, egg poaching, and river pollution. According to a 2019 study, fewer than 400 mature individuals are estimated to remain in the wild, underscoring the urgency of recovery efforts.
The Reintroduction Initiative
The reintroduction initiative was jointly led by the Forest Department of Uttar Pradesh and the Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA), supported by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG). As part of the project, 30 juvenile turtles bred in captivity at the Kukrail Gharial and Turtle Rehabilitation Centre in Lucknow were released into the Chambal-Ganga confluence near Narora, a biodiversity-rich stretch of the river.
The release site, part of a 165-km stretch declared as the National Chambal Sanctuary, is known for harboring endangered gharials and river dolphins, offering a relatively undisturbed environment for the turtles to thrive. Officials have confirmed plans to release an additional 100 juveniles over the next two years, accompanied by habitat restoration measures.
Why This Turtle Matters
The red-crowned roofed turtle plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of riverine ecosystems. By feeding on aquatic vegetation and dead organic matter, these turtles help keep river systems clean. Their sharp decline over recent decades has impacted water quality and biodiversity in the Ganga basin.
These turtles are considered keystone species — their presence or absence dramatically alters the ecosystem’s structure. Their nesting patterns also help maintain sediment movement, supporting fish breeding cycles. According to a 2021 WWF report, turtle conservation directly correlates with improvements in freshwater health indicators.
Hope for the Future
Wildlife biologists express hope that this move will aid in the revival of the species across its natural range. Regular monitoring of the released turtles using satellite tracking is underway to study their adaptation and survival.
Early satellite telemetry data indicate that at least 80% of the released turtles have acclimatized well. Plans are underway to involve local riverbank communities in turtle nest protection, enhancing both ecological outcomes and livelihoods. Schools in nearby villages have also launched turtle-awareness drives to build long-term stewardship.
A Model for Other River Systems
Conservationists believe the success of this project could serve as a model for other critically endangered freshwater species in India. With consistent efforts, cleaner river stretches, and community involvement, the revival of riverine turtles is now within reach.
Similar models are being explored for the black softshell turtle (Nilssonia nigricans) in Assam and the Brahminy river turtle (Hardella thurjii), emphasizing an integrated river basin approach. The Ganga turtle project demonstrates that science-led conservation, when paired with grassroots engagement, can turn the tide for endangered species.