The Ganges River dolphin is among the world's most threatened freshwater cetaceans. Across its global range in Nepal, India, and Bangladesh, total numbers hover between 2,000 and 3,000—yet in Nepal, fewer than 50 individuals remain. Human encroachment, habitat fragmentation, and industrial/agricultural pressures put these remaining individuals at severe risk of local extinction.

There is limited information about population size, distribution, and conservation threats from different pathways, including climate change. To protect this critically endangered species, Conservation Nepal is launching an initiative that pairs community-driven conservation advocacy with cutting-edge monitoring technology.

This project brings together the latest technologies such as drone survey and mapping. Traditional visual boat-based monitoring techniques fall short of accurately assessing underwater behaviors and often lead to imprecise population estimates.

Core Objectives

• Combine traditional boat surveys with non-invasive Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (drones) and specialized underwater filming in collaboration with French director Kevin Sampe.
• Evaluate and compare drone-assisted survey data against legacy visual methodologies to establish precise population estimates and analyze underwater behavior patterns.
• Elevate local research capabilities, producing robust scientific datasets to guide long-term species recovery and habitat corridor protection plans.
• Review existing policies and practices to better align conservation of dolphins based on research findings.  

The project aims to develop a dedicated documentary, localized with regional language audio dubbing to maximize engagement across riverine communities.