The first phase of the coral development project in the Sohar province, North Al Batinah, Oman, has begun with the goal of creating new habitats for marine creatures and enhancing biodiversity in the region. This project is supervised by the North Al Batinah Environmental Department, involving the installation of 100 environmentally friendly marine modules.
Project Goals and Benefits
Engineer Nasser Hamoud Al-Yaqoubi, director of the North Al Batinah Environmental Department, announced that the modules have been installed at depths of up to 9 meters below sea level in a marine area approximately 20 meters by 15 meters in size. This project is designed as one of the environmental interventions to provide a suitable environment for coral growth and the establishment of marine creatures.
The project aims to improve the marine environment, support coral growth, develop fish stocks, and provide shelter for juvenile marine creatures and larvae. This action will help maintain ecological balance in the region. Al-Yaqoubi emphasized that the location of the modules will be regularly monitored and evaluated to assess results and changes in subsequent phases.
Challenges and Inter-Organizational Collaborations
This project is being implemented at a time when corals are facing increasing challenges globally due to climate change and rising temperatures. A global assessment published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature in 2024 indicates that 44% of coral species in warm waters are at risk of extinction.
The installation phases of the modules were carried out in collaboration with the Sohar diving team and specialists from the General Directorate of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources of North Al Batinah, supported by several private sector institutions. This project is designed to strengthen integrated efforts and cooperation among relevant entities for the protection of the marine environment and the preservation of its natural resources.
The project seeks to restore marine habitats and prepare suitable locations for attracting and supporting the reproduction of marine creatures. It also contributes to environmental monitoring and scientific follow-up, thereby aiding in the preservation and sustainability of marine wildlife.
It is worth noting that corals play a vital role in supporting marine biodiversity, providing refuge, feeding, and breeding areas for various marine species. This project will help strengthen fish stocks, maintain ecological balance, and ensure the sustainability of marine ecosystems.
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