Divers remove nets from coral reefs of Al Fahal

MUSCAT: A campaign to clean the coral reefs around Al Fahal Island saw the participation of more than 60 volunteers. The drive was organised by the Environment Authority, in collaboration with the Coast Guard, the Directorate-General of Civil Defence and Ambulance, and in partnership with Divers Planet Diving Center.
The Authority conducts underwater cleanups annually to protect coral reefs and the marine ecosystem.
'We have an annual programme for Muscat. Earlier, we conducted underwater and beach cleanups in Qurayat. This time, we carried out cleanups at Al Fahal Island and Athaiba Reef. These areas are often affected by abandoned fishing nets,' said Yahya al Hooti, Marine Environmental Specialist at the Environment Authority.
'We found two large fishing nets at Al Fahal Island and one at Athaiba Reef. We collected around three tonnes of nets and ropes. We started at 8.30 am and concluded at 3 pm. There is strong cooperation between divers from both the government and private sectors,' he said.
The volunteers completed two one-hour dives with a one-hour surface interval between them, enabling them to achieve their objective.
Al Hooti had a clear message for fishermen.
'Some fishermen are using ghost nets that cause significant harm to the marine environment, affecting fish, turtles and coral reefs. We hope they will keep their nets away from islands and coral reefs. We also hope decision-makers will introduce regulations to better protect these areas and prevent fishermen from leaving abandoned fishing gear near the reefs.'
Many environmentalists hope Al Fahal Island will receive greater protection in the near future. Also known as Shark Island, it is a haven for diverse coral reefs and is home to blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, with occasional sightings of leopard sharks and whale sharks.
The limestone outcrop lies about four km off the coast of Al Qurum Beach.
Al Fahal Island is regarded as one of Oman's premier fishing and diving destinations because of its rich marine biodiversity.
'Most shark species found in Oman are not dangerous to humans. Sharks play an important role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem. They thrive in clean waters and help keep the ecosystem healthy by feeding on dead and weakened marine life,' explained Al Hooti, who is also a free-diving instructor and an active member of Oman's diving community.
The campaign resulted in the removal of numerous fishing nets and ropes entangled in the coral reefs, highlighting the continuing need to protect Oman's fragile marine habitats from abandoned fishing gear.