New Delhi: An Indian flapshell turtle, protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, was rescued from a polluted waterbody in east Delhi’s Harsh Vihar by Wildlife SOS, an animal rescue and rehab organization.The reptile, weighing nearly 50 kg, was spotted early in the morning by a family near a contaminated stretch in Mandoli. Noticing the turtle struggling, the family placed it in a container at their residence and alerted the NGO’s helpline. The rescuers shifted it to a transit facility in Delhi.The turtle had minor abrasions on its shell and body, likely caused by contact with asphalt and surrounding debris. No major injuries were seen, and the animal was later released into a suitable habitat.“Urban environments can be extremely challenging to aquatic species, especially when natural waterbodies become polluted or degraded. We commend the family for their compassionate and responsible action in ensuring the safety of this turtle,” said Kartick Satyanarayan, co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS.Geeta Seshamani from Wildlife SOS stressed on opting for professional help when dealing with wild species.The Indian flapshell turtle, a freshwater species found across the Indian subcontinent, plays a vital role as a scavenger in maintaining aquatic ecosystems. Despite receiving the highest legal protection in India, it is listed as vulnerable due to increasing urbanisation, water pollution and habitat loss.As per records, the species is listed as one native to Delhi, however over the period of time with loss of habitat and rising pollution sign of their nestings are unknown.“It is unfortunate to find our local aquatic wildlife struggling to adapt to the pollution we have caused. As we approach summer, collaboration with citizens will be even more important for timely rescue operations,” said Wasim Akram, director of sustainability and special projects at Wildlife SOS.
