Conservationist Reports Destruction of Labuan Bajo Coral Reefs
16 August 2017 09:24 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Conservationist Gabriel Mahal has reported the destruction of Labuan Bajo coral reefs in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) to the Transportation Ministry due to sailing-related activities.
“Ships sailing in Labuan Bajo often carelessly drop anchor and even ram into coral reefs,” Gabriel said yesterday in Jakarta. He said that the damages have raised concerns among locals.
Read: 30 Percent of Coral Reefs in Indonesia Damaged
Labuan Bajo, one of Indonesia’s finest tourist attractions, is located adjacent to the Komodo National Park.
Gabriel accused the authorities of failing to monitor sea worthiness, ship captain competence and illegal goods trafficking. As a result, Labuan Bajo waters have seen an increase in traffic and accidents. Three ships have drowned in recent times.
The people of Labuan Bajo had reported the physical damage to coral reefs to the Komodo National Park Center (BTNK). “But they did not get a positive response,” he said.
ANTARA
