Sezad launches Artificial Coral Reefs Park project to boost leisure and tourism in Oman
Site will be regularly inspected to monitor the growth of the marine life
In a bid to create an attractive habitat for fish and to provide a quality diving experiences for tourists and residents, the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (Sezad) has launched the Artificial Coral Reefs Park project.
“This week, we deployed a 250m long pipe with artificial concrete blocks every other 10m near Hamar Rock in the sea of Duqm. Another similar pipe will be deployed as well in the coming days. This project is managed by a group of Sezad employees in cooperation with a number of government bodies and other companies operating in the Zone. The project aims to sustain the marine environment in the Zone, enhance its biodiversity, increase fish production and create habitats for marine creatures, including corals and other species. Moreover, the projects serve to activate the diving activities in Duqm,” explained Nasser bin Mohammed Al Rahbi from the Partnership and Development Department at the Special Economic Zone at Duqm.
Mohammed bin Hamad Al Mahrouqi, from the Environmental Regulatory Department in the Special Economic Zone at Duqm, confirmed that no marine life was observed during the diving process that preceded the sinking of the pipe.
He explained, “The concrete blocks and pipe would create a rich environment to attract new marine life. Further, it will bring a unique diving experience for divers and diving enthusiasts as the location is an extension of the rocks scattered around Hamar Rock.”
Al Mahrouqi commended the role played by Cobra Tadjo Contracting Company to make this project a success through the contribution and support accorded by Port of Duqm Company by providing a tugboat to transport the pipes to the location, free of charge. He also urged fishermen to avoid using nets while fishing near Hamar Island to avoid causing any potential impact on the newly-created fishing and diving locations.
He concluded, “We will regularly inspect these locations by diving and continuously surveying the area to monitor the growth of the marine life. As well, we will ensure the safety of the pipes and its conditions according to the developed plan for this purpose.”
