
Chennai's Marine Elite Force is patrolling the seas to protect Olive Ridley turtles during their nesting season, as an above-average number of carcasses have washed ashore. The 12-member team, including experienced fisherfolk, uses two boats to intercept trawlers and monitor for turtles and debris. While official counts near 100 by late December, local estimates suggest higher numbers. Measures are being implemented earlier this year compared to the previous season.