Pattaya, Thailand – The Marine Resource Conservation Division – Office of Marine and Coastal Management 2, led by Director Wutthipong Wongin, spearheaded an operation aboard a speedboat in the Bay off Bang Saray on Aug 26 to crackdown on illegal activities within the marine ecosystem, particularly those detrimental to coral reefs. This included reprimanding tour boat operators and fishing vessels involved in activities such as anchoring on the reefs and reckless water activities like touching the delicate formations.
Wutthipong emphasized that the operation signified the Marine Department’s duties to uphold the law against errant tour boat operators and fishing vessels. Their focus extended to safeguarding coral reefs from destructive practices. Legal actions, including those outlined in Article 12 of the Wildlife Reservation and Protection Act 2019, awaited violators, encompassing imprisonment of up to 10 years, fines of one million baht, or both.
He highlighted the legal protection accorded to marine creatures, particularly those lacking vertebral columns, such as robust corals. The venture was in accordance with the cabinet’s resolution to protect coral reef resources from the impacts of errant underwater tourism activities, advocating for regulatory measures.
To ensure compliance, divers were dispatched to assess any damage caused by anchors and their improper placement. Fortunately, no violations were detected during this comprehensive operation.
Efforts are also underway to introduce more mooring buoys and boundary markers in 50 locations, mitigating the coral-endangering effects of anchor disposal. A cooperative front comprising volunteer sea guardians and officials from concerned agencies will monitor and ensure the conservation of marine resources. This united approach aims not only to deter violations but also to preserve the cherished coral reefs in the region.
