The Indonesian government is ramping up efforts to protect the rare dolphins that inhabit the Mahakam River region. The mammals, from the species Orcaella brevirostris, are critically endangered and are listed in the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List. Fewer than 64 individuals remain, reports
Vietnam News Agency, a partner of TV BRICS.
Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, Indonesia’s Minister of Environment and Forestry, announced that authorities have decided to establish a conservation area along the river’s tributaries, free from coal transport, to reduce the impact on the dolphin population.
He explained that shipping traffic poses one of the biggest threats to the species, as noise, large waves, and pollution have severely damaged their habitat. Additionally, the dolphins risk colliding with coal barges.
The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, is monitoring ship movements and conducting research to identify pollution sources.
Another major concern is fishing nets. According to experts, 67 per cent of dolphin deaths are caused by entanglement in nets. Inge Retnovati, Director of Biodiversity Conservation, highlighted the need for stricter enforcement of regulations in this area.
Photo: Kwhisky /
iStock
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