Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh now safeguards 15 of India's 30 freshwater turtle species through dedicated conservation initiatives. Key facilities in Kukrail, Sarnath and Chambal have successfully rehabilitated endangered species including Katahwa, Morpankhi and Sundari turtles, many rescued from illegal wildlife trade.
The state's 30-km riverine sanctuary along the Ganga in Prayagraj-Mirzapur-Bhadohi, established in 2020 under Namami Gange, serves as a protected breeding ground. Forest Department data shows increased nesting activity and hatchling survival rates since project implementation.
