Project to save Duguong from extinction

Government would soon take up a project to prevent the extinction of Dugong, an endangered marine mammal species, an official today said.

A sum of Rs 40 lakh had been allocated for the project to protect the Dugong, Deepak S. Belgi, Wildlife Warden of Gulf of Mannar National Marine National Park, said.

As part of the project, awareness would be created among fishermen on the need to protect dugong.

Steps would be taken to increase the population of Dugong as it breeds round the year.

Dugong is poached for its tasty flesh and medicinal properties.Its hide also is in great demand.