Thiruvananthapuram: A whale shark, one of the world's largest and endangered marine species, was found stranded on the shores of Kochuveli after it got trapped in a fishing net early Tuesday morning.

The massive shark, weighing approximately 2,000 kg, became entangled in the net of Baiju, a local fisherman, around 8 am.

According to witnesses, two whale sharks had entered the net, but one managed to escape back into the sea. The other shark, however, was unable to free itself and got stuck in the sand while attempts were being made to release it.

Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) officials, along with local fishermen, are working tirelessly to rescue the giant marine creature. Due to low tide conditions, the process of returning the shark to the sea has become increasingly challenging. Rescuers are now attempting to tie the shark to a boat in hopes of pulling it back into deeper waters.

Since the whale shark is a protected species, the police and forest department have been alerted to ensure proper handling of the situation. Authorities are closely monitoring the efforts, as conservationists stress the importance of saving the endangered species.

Rescue operations are ongoing, with officials and locals determined to return the stranded whale shark to its natural habitat as soon as possible.