Divers are once again taking to the seabeds and ports across Bahrain to clean up debris and waste as part of an annual nationwide campaign.
Our Seas Clean National Campaign, organised by the Bahrain Diving Volunteer Team Authority (BDVT), is in its third edition this year following the success of the previous two editions that witnessed the collection of tonnes of waste from ports and jetties across Bahrain.
The campaign this year commenced under the patronage of Industry and Commerce Minister Zayed Alzayani, who is also the honorary president of BDVT.
It aims to tackle the accumulation of waste in ports as a result of dumping and improper practices by fishermen and sailors as well as remove ghost traps and fishing nets lost over the years, which have led to the depletion of marine resources.
“We proudly started at Hidd Port last Saturday and managed to remove more than 2.5 tonnes of waste ranging from steel, tyres, equipment, a variety of plastics, damaged fishing gear and more,” said BDVT president Khaled Al Saeed.
“This waste contaminates seabeds and natural marine life and our efforts are aimed at preserving them and highlighting the impact of pollution.
“We also aim to educate people about the importance of recycling and the correct channels to dispose of waste.
“We post a strong message to the community and officials to follow the rules and keep our seas clean.
“Our campaign aims to implement the Sustainability of Marine Protection Law as well as create a secure and clean marine environment.”
The GDN previously reported that the team was received by Mr Alzayani who praised their efforts to spread the culture of diving, revive national heritage and volunteer work.
The team will clean up Galali Port on Saturday from 2.30pm to 5.30pm, followed by Ras Ria Fishermen’s Port on October 29 and Muharraq Port on November 5.
Meanwhile, they will start clean-up efforts in the Northern Governorate by tackling Budaiya Port on November 12 followed by Manama Port on November 19, and finally concluding the campaign at Sitra Port (Bandar Al Dar) on November 26.
Volunteers are welcome to register for the clean-up campaigns across Bahrain.
For more details, call 39991911 or visit @bdvt.bh on Instagram.
reem@gdnmedia.bh
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