Surat Emerges as National Leader in Otter Conservation

Surat | Gujarat — Surat, the Diamond City of India and Gujarat’s economic powerhouse, has now carved a distinct identity in wildlife conservation, setting a national benchmark through its remarkable success in preserving the endangered Smooth Coated Indian Otter. The Dr. Shyamaprasad Mukherjee Zoological Garden (Sarthana Nature Park), managed by the Surat Municipal Corporation, has been officially recognized as a Coordinating Zoo for otter breeding by the Central Zoo Authority.

This recognition highlights Surat’s growing leadership in ecological balance and biodiversity protection.

Zoo Superintendent-in-charge Dr. Rajesh Patel said the journey began in 2006 when two otters were rescued from the Tapi river during floods in the Amroli area. “These rescues became the foundation of a long-term conservation mission. From just a few rescued animals, we have successfully built a sustainable breeding program,” he said.

According to Dr. Patel, captive breeding of the Smooth Coated Indian Otter began in 2008 at the Sarthana Nature Park, and scientific management practices have helped the population grow steadily. “So far, 63 cubs have been born here, making it one of the most successful otter conservation programs in India,” he added.

A rare milestone was achieved in 2024–25 when a female otter gave birth to seven cubs in a single litter—an event described as unprecedented in the country.

The zoo has also participated in a wildlife exchange program with institutions across India, including Mysore, Delhi, Chandigarh, Bhubaneswar, and Jamnagar’s Vantara facility, strengthening biodiversity conservation efforts nationwide.

Dr. Patel emphasized the ecological importance of otters, calling them “health indicators of river ecosystems.” He noted, “Their presence reflects clean and healthy waterways, which is essential for environmental balance.”

The Smooth Coated Indian Otter, often found in South Gujarat’s river systems, has benefited from Surat’s favorable climate and dedicated care systems. Their social structure, breeding patterns, and habitat requirements are now being closely studied at the facility.