Soon, a helpline to report dead marine animals

Concerned about the slow response time in handling the cases of dead marine creatures being washed ashore along the state’s coastline, the chief conservator of forests (mangroves) plans to set up a helpline where citizens can report such sightings.

Concerned about the slow response time in handling the cases of dead marine creatures being washed ashore along the state’s coastline, the chief conservator of forests (mangroves) plans to set up a helpline where citizens can report such sightings.

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Since March, Mumbai has witnessed 11 incidents of dead marine creatures getting washed ashore. “With the available resources, it is difficult to collect information about such incidents. Citizens living along the coast can become our eyes and help us to document the various species,” said N Vasudevan, chief conservator of forests (mangroves).

Meanwhile, citizens can call up the special cell of mangroves (26591586), which came up with the idea after consultations with the forest department.“There may be several other incidents that have gone unreported. A helpline will help in collating information,” said Pravin Pardeshi, principal secretary, forest department.

“The forest department should carry out necroscopy to find out what the cause of deaths is,” said Stalin D, director (projects), Vanashakti.