Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (VGDS)

Overview

The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (VGDS) is a protected area in Bhagalpur District, Bihar, India, established for the conservation of the endangered Gangetic dolphin (Platanista gangetica). Notified in 1991, the sanctuary encompasses a 60-kilometer stretch of the Ganges River from Sultanganj to Kahalgaon. It is the only sanctuary of its kind in Asia, dedicated to protecting the Gangetic dolphins, which have been declared the national aquatic animal of India.

History and Significance

The sanctuary was named after the famous archaeological remains of Vikramshila University, a renowned center of Buddhist learning during the Pala dynasty. The decision to establish the sanctuary was driven by the need to protect the dwindling population of Gangetic dolphins, which have faced severe threats due to habitat degradation and pollution.

Location and Geography

The VGDS spans a 60-kilometer stretch of the Ganges River, with its boundaries subject to change due to the river's dynamic geomorphology. Key towns along the sanctuary include Sultanganj, Bhagalpur, and Kahalgaon. The region is characterized by a variety of habitats, including deep water areas preferred by dolphins, sandbars that support breeding birds, and shallow waters rich in fish species.

Flora and Fauna

Gangetic Dolphins

The primary attraction of the sanctuary is the Gangetic dolphin, locally known as "Soons." These dolphins are classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List and are included in Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. They are typically found in deep riverine habitats with ample fish supply and minimal current.

Other Aquatic Wildlife

VGDS hosts a rich diversity of aquatic wildlife, including:

• Indian Smooth-Coated Otter (Lutrogale perspicillata)
• Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus)
• Freshwater Turtles: Key species include the Indian Softshell Turtle (Nilsonia gangetica), Indian Peacock Softshell Turtle (Nilsonia hurum), Indian Roofed Turtle (Pangshura tecta), Indian Tent Turtle (Pangshura tentoria), Indian Flapshell Turtle (Lissemys punctata), and Indian Narrow-headed Softshell Turtle (Chitra indica).

• Fish Species: The sanctuary's waters are home to various fish species, such as the Helicopter Catfish (Wallago attu), Indian River Shad (Salmostoma bacalia), and Gangetic Mystus (Mystus cavasius).

Avifauna

VGDS is an Important Bird Area, supporting approximately 198 avifauna species, including:

• Raptors: Black Kite, Black-winged Kite, Shikra, Crested Serpent Eagle, and several vulnerable species such as the Eastern Imperial Eagle and Pallas's Fish Eagle.
• Waterfowl and Waders: The sanctuary provides habitat for a diverse range of waterfowl, including threatened species like the Indian Skimmer (Rynchops albicollis) and Greater Adjutant (Leptoptilos dubius).

Visitor Information

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit VGDS is between June and October, when dolphin sightings are most frequent. The sanctuary is accessible throughout the year.

Accessibility

• By Air: The nearest airport is in Patna, approximately 235 kilometers from the sanctuary.
• By Rail: Bhagalpur Junction is the nearest railway station, about 15 kilometers from the sanctuary.
• By Road: The sanctuary is well-connected by road, with regular bus services from nearby towns and cities.