Jamnagar Sanctuary
The Oil city of India, Jamnagar, is also home to India's first marine sanctuary, located in the Gulf of Kutch. It comprises an archipelago of 42 islands noted for their coral reefs and mangroves. It is possible to see dolphins, fin-less porpoises, sea turtles and a variety of colorful tropical fish. Currently, there are organised coral walks, and the marine life is mostly unexplored, due to lack of diving facilities, strong currents, and low visibility.
Having dived in some of the prime locations of the world, I didn't expect much. I was skeptical as to what we would see on the surface, without the opportunity to delve into the waters. However, the variety of marine species washed ashore during low tide, piqued my curiosity. We even discovered a few unidentified species, and these small teasers escalated my excitement, as I imagined the tremendous potential for dive exploration.
In recent years, the biodiversity has been under severe threat, and I fear that this treasure trove may disappear even before it is fully discovered.
Extraction of corals and sands by cement industries, increased turbidity of water, oil refineries, chemical industries and mechanised fishing boats are endangering Indian marine life, and prompt intervention is required for conservation, and research efforts.
Having dived in some of the prime locations of the world, I didn't expect much. I was skeptical as to what we would see on the surface, without the opportunity to delve into the waters. However, the variety of marine species washed ashore during low tide, piqued my curiosity. We even discovered a few unidentified species, and these small teasers escalated my excitement, as I imagined the tremendous potential for dive exploration.
In recent years, the biodiversity has been under severe threat, and I fear that this treasure trove may disappear even before it is fully discovered.
Extraction of corals and sands by cement industries, increased turbidity of water, oil refineries, chemical industries and mechanised fishing boats are endangering Indian marine life, and prompt intervention is required for conservation, and research efforts.
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