A total of 60 hatcheries have been established for nest protection, the highest number to date, leading to a greater number of hatchlings emerging. File
| Photo Credit: The Hindu

After a slow and concerning start to the Olive Ridley turtle nesting season in Tamil Nadu this year, the situation has significantly improved.

Volunteers and the Tamil Nadu Forest Department have collectively gathered 2,53,719 turtle eggs across the State so far, nearing last year’s total of 2,58,907, with several weeks still remaining in the nesting season, according to official data.

The beginning of 2025 presented significant challenges for the Olive Ridley turtles on Tamil Nadu’s coastline. In January and February, over 1,200 dead turtles washed ashore along the coasts of Chennai and Chengalpattu due to destructive fishing practices, particularly trawl fishing. These practices, such as the use of large nets that trap not only fish but also sea turtles, caused significant harm to the turtle population.

In response, by the end of February, the State government took swift action. Multiple departments, including Fisheries, Forests, and the Indian Coast Guard, collaborated to regulate trawl fishing activities. Strict enforcement of rules was implemented to protect marine life, including Olive Ridley turtles, by limiting trawler operations in key turtle nesting areas.

Despite the early setbacks, the efforts of various stakeholders, including government agencies, volunteers, and local communities, have led to a recovery in the Olive Ridley nesting season. The figures so far are promising, with a substantial number of eggs being collected and hatchlings being safely released into the sea.

Data shows that Cuddalore tops the list with 89,784 eggs collected as of March 11, followed by Chennai division with 47,082 eggs. Nagapattinam ranks third with 73,728 eggs, while Villupuram and Ramnad divisions collected 23,403 and 18,073 eggs, respectively.

A total of 60 hatcheries have been established for nest protection, the highest number to date, leading to a greater number of hatchlings emerging. Regular patrolling is being conducted to prevent mechanised trawl boats from operating within five nautical miles of the shore. Additionally, the Forest Department plans to conduct studies to identify key congregation sites in order to minimise fishing activity in those areas.