TEMPO.CO, Semarang - Alam Karimun, a non-government organization focusing on the preservation of the Karimunjawa National Park, Central Java, found that tugboats carrying coal from Kalimantan to Java coast have caused damage to coral reef ecosystem in the national park. Alam Karimun chairman Jaharnudin said that tugboat activities in the area are illegal since the dock is not provided for large boats.
"We have filed reports related the damage to coral reef in Karimunjawa many times, but they were ignored," Jarhanudin told the Central Java Legislative Council on Tuesday, March 21, 2017.
Jarhanudin revealed that his organization had reported the damage to the Center for Karimun Jawa National Park in Semarang and the Port and Navigation agency. Since the reports were ignored, Jarhanudin escalated the report to the Legislative Council.
Alam Karimun recorded five incidents of tugboats running aground coral reefs in Karimunjawa waters. One of the tugboats hit the dock that was provided only for small boats.
The illegal practice was conducted by Karimun residents who used small islands to protect their boats during a west wind season and high waves.
"There are residents who operate illegal tugboat navigation operation," Jaharnudin revealed.
The tugboats were docked on beaches that are not appropriate for boats. They also often disturb tourists and cause air pollution resulted in from coals they carry.
EDI FAISOL