The event was aimed at creating awareness on the importance of protecting endangered sea turtle species.
Nellore: In a significant move towards marine conservation, Tirupati district collector Dr S. Venkateswar released Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings into the sea at Gummalladibba Beach near Srinivasa Satram in Chillakur mandal of Tirupati district under the supervision of the forest department and with the support of Jindal Foundation.
The event was aimed at creating awareness on the importance of protecting endangered sea turtle species.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Venkateswar has emphasised that saving endangered species like the Olive Ridley turtles is a shared responsibility.
He noted that these turtles travel thousands of kilometres to return to coastal regions like Nellore to lay eggs while stressing the need for community cooperation to their conservation.
“These hatchlings symbolise hope for marine biodiversity. Preserving them not only benefits marine life but also supports the health of our oceans and, in turn, human life,” the collector said.
He appreciated the efforts of forest department officials, NGOs and the Jindal Foundation for their dedication in collecting and safeguarding turtle eggs during the nesting season (November to February) and safely releasing the young into the ocean post-hatching.
Dr Venkateswar also called on the local communities and fishermen to support these conservation initiatives, especially in maintaining clean beaches by minimising plastic usage.
“Srinivasa Satram and Gummalladibba are stunning coastal sites that deserve recognition as eco-tourism destinations,” he remarked, encouraging everyone to help maintain their natural beauty.
District forest officer P. Vivek echoed the sentiments, stating, “Together, we can turn Srinivasa Satram and Gummalladibba Beach into world-class turtle conservation zones and eco-resorts. The turtles travel nearly 1,000 km to return here, and we must safeguard their journey and habitat.”
He extended his gratitude to Jindal Power Limited, which has collected over 10,000 eggs under their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. So far, around 3,500 hatchlings have been released, including 500 hatchlings on Wednesday by the district collector.
Jindal Power Limited spokesperson Srinivasa Rao highlighted the company’s commitment to environmental protection and plastic-free initiatives through the Jindal Foundation.
“Olive Ridley turtles play a crucial role in maintaining oceanic balance by controlling jellyfish populations and supporting the marine food chain. Our conservation efforts contribute to a more stable and sustainable marine ecosystem,” he said.
The collector also visited the hatchery site to personally observe the conservation and release processes. As part of the event, forest range officers were honoured for their outstanding work in turtle protection.
Prominent attendees included TD mandal president Venkateswara Reddy, tahsildar Srinivasulu, forest officials and many local villagers. All the attendees pledged their support for the continued preservation of these endangered marine species.
