United News of Bangladesh

The government has finalised the Integrated Management Plan for the Swatch of No-Ground Marine Protected Area (SONG-MPA, aiming to safeguard globally threatened marine species, said Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan on Wednesday. The advisor came up with the information at a meeting for finalising the Integrated Management Plan for the Swatch of no-ground Marine Protected Area (SONG-MPA) held virtually. The government took the plan to protect 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. She also 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 added.

The government is working sincerely to protect the marine environment and biodiversity, Environment, Forests and Climate Change Minister Md Shahab Uddin said Sunday.