Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan. Photo: Ministry

 
DHAKA, Jan 8, 2025 (BSS) - Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today said the government has finalised the Integrated Management Plan for the Swatch of No-Ground Marine Protected Area (SONG-MPA). 

“The plan aims to safeguard globally threatened marine species such as dolphins, whales, sharks, rays, and turtles, along with their habitats, through marine spatial planning, community engagement, and multi-agency enforcement,” she said in a meeting joining virtually.

The meeting was arranged for finalising the Integrated Management Plan for the Swatch of no-ground Marine Protected Area (SONG-MPA). 

Rizwana said the plan not only ensures biodiversity protection but also supports sustainable marine fisheries and coastal livelihoods, contributing to a resilient blue economy.

The plan emphasises strategic zoning, pollution control, and active participation of coastal communities as stewards of the marine ecosystem, she said.

The environment adviser said this initiative underscores a collaborative approach with multiple agencies and coastal communities to balance marine resource utilisation with environmental preservation.

“The plan is a cornerstone for advancing Bangladesh’s commitment to marine biodiversity conservation and a thriving blue economy,” she added.

The management plan integrates data from comprehensive surveys, stakeholder consultations, and research, detailing current conditions, proposed strategies, and actionable recommendations. 

It designates critical zones, including Fish Spawning, Marine Wildlife Protection, and Sustainable Fishery areas. A key proposal is to expand the protected area from 1,738 square km to 6,866 square km to ensure broader biodiversity conservation and enhance the sustainability of marine resources.