Indian flapshell turtle rescued from sewage canal in Mayapuri

In the middle of Mayapuri’s industrial bustle, amid workshops, warehouses and residential blocks, a quiet drama unfolded inside a narrow sewage canal this week.Beneath the surface of murky water, an Indian flapshell turtle struggled to stay afloat, far from the ponds and wetlands it instinctively calls home.

The reptile was first spotted by a local resident who noticed unusual movement in the canal. On taking a closer look, the resident realised it was a turtle trapped in the polluted drain and promptly alerted the Rapid Response Unit of the Wildlife SOS.

Within a short time, a two-member rescue team arrived at the site. Carefully navigating the cramped canal space, the rescuers secured the turtle using specialised equipment, ensuring the animal was not further stressed or injured during extraction. Despite the hazardous surroundings, the turtle was found to be in a stable condition and without visible injuries.

After completing the necessary procedures, the reptile was handed over to officials at Asola-Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary for observation and eventual release into a more suitable habitat.

The Indian flapshell turtle (Lissemys punctata), protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, is a freshwater species widely distributed across the country. Recognisable for the distinctive skin flaps that cover its limbs when retracted into its shell, the turtle plays a vital ecological role as a scavenger, helping maintain the health of aquatic ecosystems.

Wildlife experts say such rescues are becoming increasingly common as rapid urbanisation and shrinking water bodies push wildlife into human-dominated spaces. Sewage canals, construction sites and busy roads often become unintended traps for animals navigating fragmented habitats.

Kartick Satyanarayan, co-founder and CEO of the Wildlife SOS, said, “Rapid urban expansion often leaves wild animals vulnerable in hazardous environments.” He appreciated the alert resident whose timely intervention ensured the safe rescue of the animal, stressing that citizen participation plays a key role in protecting urban wildlife.

Meanwhile, Suvidha Bhatnagar, communication director of the Wildlife SOS, said the incident underscored how informed citizens can serve as the first line of support for animals in distress by promptly contacting trained rescuers instead of attempting to intervene themselves.

As Delhi continues to expand, conservationists stress that coexistence will depend not only on institutional response systems but also on vigilant citizens willing to act when wildlife appears in distress.