Tough measures are underway to tackle violations that could damage the marine ecosystem and lead to depletion of the country’s fish stocks.
Oil and Environment Minister Dr Mohammed Bin Daina highlighted practices such as overfishing, the use of illegal tools and the capture of juvenile fish, which will be met with legal action.
“These activities are deemed harmful to marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and fish habitats,” he said, while responding, in writing, to a question by Shura Council member Fuad Al Haji on marine protection measures.
Dr Bin Daina highlighted ongoing co-ordination between the General Directorate of Marine Resources at the Supreme Council for the Environment and the Coastguard to enforce compliance, while referring violators to the Public Prosecution for legal action.
He cited the 2002 Fishing Organisation, Catching and Protection Law which outlines the legal framework for the sustainable use and protection of marine resources.
Authorities inspecting a small vessel last year
The minister said enforcement operations addressed several infractions last year, including :
- The sale and trade of shrimp during prohibited seasons.
- Fishing, sale and trade of juvenile fish and crustaceans.
- Unlicensed fishing activities and the use of illegal fishing traps.
“Campaigns are ongoing to remove unlicensed fishing traps as part of broader enforcement efforts,” he said.
The minister stressed the importance of monitoring marine imports and exports.
“This includes verifying the legality and safety of imported fish, preventing the entry of prohibited fishing tools and collaborating with the Cybercrime Directorate at the Interior Ministry to track and address online sales of illegal fishing equipment,” he said.
Dr Bin Daina explained that the ministry was holding regular meetings and workshops with fishermen’s associations to improve awareness of laws and regulations.
Dr Bin Daina during last week’s parliament session
“Awareness campaigns are also being held through media outlets and social media platforms to educate the public on appropriate fishing practices,” he added.
The minister said using prohibited fishing tools, such as bottom trawl nets and ‘hyali’ nets, remains one of the most significant infractions. He underscored the importance of enforcing temporary fishing bans and organising joint inspection campaigns with other governmental entities to curb violations.
“Efforts include updating national regulations related to marine resources, such as standards for fishing equipment and methods, as well as revising penalties to align with developments in the sector,” he said.
“Additionally, the ministry has announced plans to introduce legislation regulating recreational fishing. This initiative aims to prevent misuse or curb violations by amateur fishermen.”
Dr Bin Daina said a smart monitoring centre equipped with an Automatic Identification System was also being developed in collaboration with the Survey and Land Registration Bureau to enhance surveillance capabilities.
“We are dedicated to the sustainable management of Bahrain’s marine resources,” he said.
“By combining legal enforcement, technological integration and educational outreach, we seek to balance economic activity with environmental preservation. Our marine resources are a national treasure, and their protection requires co-operation from all stakeholders.”
Shura Council members will be notified about the response during their weekly session on Sunday.
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