Mangaluru: Minister Eshwar Khandre, responsible for Forests, Environment, and Ecology, paid a visit to the nesting grounds of Oliver Ridley turtles located on Tannirbhavi beach on Monday in Mangaluru.

During his two-day tour of Dakshina Kannada, the Minister stayed overnight at the forest guest house near Tannirbhavi beach. Upon being informed by officials about the turtles nesting on the beach after an absence of nearly four decades, the Minister promptly visited the site. He commended the efforts taken to safeguard the area from potential threats posed by dogs and other predators.

On December 31, 2023, the Forest Department personnel discovered the nesting site, where the turtles had laid 115 eggs. To shield the eggs from potential harm caused by tidal waves, the forest staff relocated them to a different location a few meters away.

In recognition of their collaboration with the Forest Department in identifying and safeguarding the turtle nesting site, the Minister awarded a cash prize of Rs 5,000 to fishermen Anand Kotian and Vasu Kotian from Sasihitlu.

Deputy Conservator of Forest Anthony S. Mariyappa reported the identification and protection of 11 nesting points on Sasihiltu beach. To monitor and protect turtles along the 45 km coastline of Mangaluru, a total of five teams comprising forest personnel and fishermen have been established.