India has many rivers known for their beauty and religious significance. However, one river instills fear in people just by its name. This river is the Chambal, considered one of the country's purest rivers. But its uniqueness lies not only in its clear water; it is home to a large number of snakes, crocodiles, Ganges dolphins, and turtles, which makes people avoid swimming or boating.
A significant portion of the Chambal River has been declared the Chambal National Sanctuary. This sanctuary spans 400–600 kilometers across the states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. It was established in 1978–1979 with the aim of conserving snakes. Today, it is considered the world's largest snake conservation area.
The water in the Chambal River remains relatively clean and free from pollution. Because there are few industrial enterprises and cities near the river, its natural appearance has been preserved. This allows many rare aquatic organisms to live here. Both snakes and crocodiles inhabit the river. Snakes have long, slender jaws that help them catch fish, which is their food. Crocodiles, on the other hand, possess wide jaws that aid them in hunting many other animals.
Due to the presence of these two species, people exercise extreme caution. Although an attack is possible when entering the river, the forest department advises people to refrain from swimming without permission. Many sections of the river are safe for wildlife. Local residents also respect this river and try to avoid unnecessary bathing.
Chambal is unique not only because of its snakes and crocodiles but also because it is home to Ganges dolphins, turtles, and a large number of birds. Over 130 species of birds and many rare aquatic creatures inhabit it, making it a very important place for wildlife enthusiasts. Thousands of tourists visit this river every year, but they do not enter the water; instead, they prefer to take boat safaris. Under the supervision of guides and the forest department, tourists can observe snakes, crocodiles, dolphins, and colorful birds up close.
Experts believe that if special care continues to be taken for the Chambal River and its surroundings, the population of snakes and other rare animals may increase. Despite ongoing issues such as illegal sand mining, pollution, and poaching, thanks to conservation efforts, Chambal is still regarded as one of the safest havens for these animals. Thus, Chambal is viewed not merely as a river, but as a home for rare wildlife. Its clean water, wild landscapes, snakes, and crocodiles place Chambal among the most unusual rivers in India. If you plan to visit this place, it is best to enjoy its natural beauty and wildlife from a safe distance rather than entering the river itself.
The rescue operation attracted public attention: a pregnant dolphin-fish weighing 147 kilograms was found in the Maharadjanj canal in Gorakhpur, having deviated from the Triveni River from Nepal and become trapped in the ditch.
The dolphin-fish, which arrived from the Triveni River in Nepal, ended up in the canal. According to Dr. Yogesh Kumar Singh, Deputy Director of the Gorakhpur Zoo, the animal slowly reached the Dermouli Bazar canal near Partaval and had been stuck there for three days, making its rescue critically important.
Initial attempts to catch the fish were unsuccessful. Under the guidance of Anuradha Bemuri, Chief Wildlife Warden of Uttar Pradesh, and BS Bramhi, Chief Warden of Gorakhpur, an attempt to capture it was made on Sunday, July 19. However, heavy rain and the fast current in the canal created significant difficulties.
After consultations with senior officials from the Irrigation Department, the water level in the canal was successfully lowered. On Monday, July 20, the animal was successfully rescued from the Devariya Canal, which is part of the Khat Range forest division of Kushinagar, near the village of Siswan Shukla.
After the rescue, the dolphin was placed in a special dolphin transport vehicle for medical treatment and examination. This pregnant female, measuring 7 feet 2 inches long and weighing 147 kg, was to be released into the Rapti River, as it is a safe habitat for dolphins.
By order of the Gorakhpur Police Chief, Dr. Kaustub, a green corridor was created for the safe movement of the dolphin into the Rapti River. As a result of this corridor, covering the distance of about 52 kilometers to Rapti Ghat took only one hour and five minutes, after which the fish was safely released into the Rapti River.
