Muscat – Oman Fishermen’s Association  in Cooperation the Environment Authority (EA) removed 3 tonnes of marine waste during a major campaign in the wilayat of Mahout in Al Wusta governorate.

The campaign – held from October 5 to 7 – saw the participation of 30 volunteers.

“The members of the Oman Fishermen’s Association (OFA), in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources; the Environment Authority and a number of diving teams, carried out the campaign to get rid of marine waste and protect the coral reefs in that area,” Salman bin Hamad al Farsi, chairman of the Association’s Board of Directors, told Muscat Daily.

“Besides helping the marine environment to remain clean, our attempts are also meant for spreading environmental awareness among the community members,” said Farsi.

The campaign resulted in the removal of three tonnes of waste that include fishing nets, ropes, anchors, iron pieces, plastic items and empty cans. “Cleaning mission used to start at 8am and end at 3pm on each day at depths 4m to 9m in different locations,” OFA Board chairman informed.

Talking about the association’s efforts, Farsi said the OFA works continuously throughout the sultanate to support fishermen and raise awareness of everyone interested in the marine life, including fishermen, seafarers and beachgoers to preserve our natural environment.

“The association will implement a similar campaign to remove marine waste in the Hallaniyat Islands. We hope fishermen abide by fishing laws. They shouldn’t discard unwanted nets in the sea,” Farsi urged.