PHNOM PENH: Cambodia is preparing to install automated cameras and an advanced monitoring system at its Mekong Dolphin Monitoring, Surveillance and Conservation Centre, in a move aimed at strengthening efforts to protect the endangered freshwater mammals from illegal fishing.
The system is expected to become operational by the end of the year.
Images and information collected by the cameras will be transmitted to the centre, helping authorities identify high-risk areas, plan patrols and respond more quickly and effectively to illegal fishing activities while making better use of available resources, explained the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, in a Thursday (Nov 5) statement.
The project is being supported by WWF and the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Special Fund, contributing to the modernisation of fisheries conservation, stronger law enforcement and the long-term protection of one of Cambodia’s most valuable natural heritage assets.
Im Rachna, ministry undersecretary of state responsible for fisheries conservation, led a delegation of fisheries conservation officials, Kratie Fisheries Administration Cantonment officers and partner organisations on an inspection tour of the facility, located at the Anlung Kampi Dolphin Conservation Guard Station in Kratie province, and its new equipment.
She emphasised the need to strengthen monitoring and surveillance through camera technology and a video data storage system capable of recording dolphins. Officials will also study the feasibility of using solar power to reduce electricity costs.
Other priorities include closer cooperation with international experts and relevant partners, adjustments to organisational structures, clearer allocation of responsibilities according to expertise, additional training and improvements to working conditions and staff welfare.
These measures are intended to strengthen the capacity of conservation teams and ensure the long-term effectiveness of dolphin management, protection and conservation.
Rachna highlighted Cambodia’s achievements in managing and conserving its dolphin population, attributing the progress to the participation and commitment of all stakeholders.
She highlighted the Kingdom’s pride in its conservation achievements.
The number of cases in which illegal fishing activities had been suppressed and prohibited fishing equipment confiscated have increased significantly she noted, demonstrating progress in conservation efforts and law enforcement in targeted areas.
She praised river guards for their dedication to protecting and conserving the Mekong dolphins, while commending fisheries conservation specialists and WWF Cambodia for their active cooperation in patrols, preventing illegal activities and safeguarding aquatic resources.
Six Mekong dolphin births have been recorded this year, with the Kingdom’s population believed to stand at almost 120. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
