Muscat – The Environment Authority (EA) signed two agreements on Monday to strengthen environmental inspection and monitoring across Oman and launch the first phase of the development of Al Saleel Nature Reserve, as part of efforts to protect biodiversity and promote sustainable environmental development.

The agreements were signed by Dr Abdullah bin Ali Al Amri, Chairman of EA, and Maj Gen Abdullah bin Ali Al Harthi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Security and Safety Services Establishment.

The first agreement establishes a specialised environmental inspection and monitoring system through qualified field teams responsible for carrying out inspections, detecting environmental violations, preparing reports and entering data into electronic systems in accordance with the authority’s regulations.

Al Amri said the agreement represents a significant step towards strengthening environmental enforcement in the sultanate.

“The Security and Safety Services Establishment will inspect facilities and individuals to ensure compliance with environmental laws and regulations and help reduce environmentally harmful practices and pollution,” he said.

Al Amri added that the initiative responds to long-standing calls to activate environmental policing, noting that about 50% of the environmental monitoring and inspection system has now been established.

Implementation will follow a phased plan that includes digital monitoring systems, specialised training for inspection teams and a public awareness campaign highlighting the new enforcement measures.

The second agreement covers the first phase of the Al Saleel Nature Reserve development project in the wilayat of Al Kamil Wa Al Wafi at a cost of more than RO2mn. The project is funded by Oman India Fertiliser Company (OMIFCO)and Oman LNG.

The development will include a visitor centre, a reserve management centre and supporting infrastructure designed to enhance visitor services while protecting the reserve’s unique biodiversity.

Al Amri said the project reflects the authority’s commitment to balancing conservation with sustainable tourism development.

He explained that tourism facilities within protected areas are located only in the least environmentally sensitive sites to safeguard ecosystems and wildlife while creating opportunities for responsible ecotourism.

The visitor centre will also provide space for local communities to market traditional products and support sustainable tourism activities within the reserve.

Referring to the ongoing khareef season, Al Amri urged residents and visitors to respect environmental regulations and help preserve Dhofar’s rich biodiversity by avoiding activities that could disrupt its ecological balance.