Plan Finalised to Protect Marine Biodiversity in Swatch of no-ground Area

Syeda Rizwana Hasan,

Dhaka, 8 January: Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and the Ministry of Water Resources, announced that the government has finalized the Integrated Management Plan for the Swatch of No-Ground Marine Protected Area (SONG-MPA). The plan aims to safeguard globally threatened marine species such as dolphins, whales, sharks, rays, and turtles, along with their habitats, through marine spatial planning, community engagement, and multi-agency enforcement.

Environment Advisor said this in a meeting for finalizing the Integrated Management Plan for the Swatch of no-ground Marine Protected Area (SONG-MPA) held virtually on Wednesday.

The Advisor highlighted that the plan not only ensures biodiversity protection but also supports sustainable marine fisheries and coastal livelihoods, contributing to a resilient blue economy. The plan emphasizes strategic zoning, pollution control, and active participation of coastal communities as stewards of the marine ecosystem.

She said led by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the initiative underscores a collaborative approach with multiple agencies and coastal communities to balance marine resource utilization with environmental preservation. The plan is a cornerstone for advancing Bangladesh’s commitment to marine biodiversity conservation and a thriving blue economy.

The management plan integrates data from comprehensive surveys, stakeholder consultations, and research, detailing current conditions, proposed strategies, and actionable recommendations. It designates critical zones, including Fish Spawning, Marine Wildlife Protection, and Sustainable Fishery areas. A key proposal is to expand the protected area from 1,738 km² to 6,866 km² to ensure broader biodiversity conservation and enhance the sustainability of marine resources. – PID Hnadout