“Unlike blue whale populations in other parts of the world, those in the Northern Indian Ocean do not appear to migrate beyond this single ocean basin. But traditionally, we think of tropical waters as being nutrient poor and unproductive, so why would these whales spend time here in such great numbers in such a small area? How can it support their immense energetic demands? What processes within this ocean give rise to large blooms of krill - their favourite food? How do the environment and human activities influence the ecology of the whale?" Asha asks, and these questions form the basis of her research here.
The issues : Unregulated whale watching
Advertisements touting whale watching are probably a familiar sight to many by now, with people, both tourists and locals, clamouring to catch sight of these majestic beasts. But do you know that the whale watching industry is completely unregulated? That is, there are currently no regulations in place when it comes to protecting the whales. From large travel companies to just about anyone who has a licensed boat can go out into the ocean in search to catch a glimpse of these whales.
The lack of regulation however, creates problems. “There are International guidelines, like distances observed, that should be followed because whales are acoustically sensitive," Asha said, adding that these guidelines are however put in practice by very few people. “Some operators go out of their way to find out about this, but on the other hand, there are people out there looking for a good money opportunity or a short term gain, and it is unfortunate because they have no regard for the natural environment of the whale," she said.
“A vast majority have no skill, some of them care, but others don't. All that is required is that they register as a boat at the fishery harbour, and the coast guard will take down details of the license and boat," she said.
Asha however says that the answer is not to ban whale watching, but rather to observe them in their natural environment without harassing them. “I do not say no to whale watching, but you should make sure you watch it in its natural environment. You should watch them on their terms. Do not chase behind them, that is harassment. It is much better to sit and wait rather than chase because the whales will invariably go past you," she said.
According to Asha, there are at times around 10 to 12 boats in the water at the same time, and added that she has even witnessed instances where boats have, rather than switch off their engines and observe, chased around, and even cut into the path of the whale, disturbing it.
“We have to stop this from happening before it gets any worse," she said. Read the full report here.
Source: by Gazala Anver, The Sunday Leader.
