Environment Authority of Oman highlights danger of discarded fishing gear

Muscat – Environment Authority (EA) has issued an appeal to the public following discovery of a dead sea turtle entangled in abandoned fishing ropes on one of Oman’s beaches. The incident has once again drawn attention to the growing threat that discarded fishing gear pose to marine life in the sultanate. In a video shared […]

Muscat – Environment Authority (EA) has issued an appeal to the public following discovery of a dead sea turtle entangled in abandoned fishing ropes on one of Oman’s beaches.

The incident has once again drawn attention to the growing threat that discarded fishing gear pose to marine life in the sultanate.

In a video shared by EA, the authority mourned the loss, stating, ‘Her only fault was that she lived in the sea. A turtle died on one of our beaches because of neglected fishing lines. Don’t throw ropes and nets into the sea, because every thread you leave behind could be a shackle that kills an innocent life.’

The death of this turtle adds to a troubling trend. According to EA, at least 24 marine mammals and sea turtles were found dead along Oman’s coastline in 2024. While some showed signs of entanglement or injury – likely from fishing equipment – many carcasses were too decomposed to determine the exact cause of death or bore no visible trauma suggesting natural causes.

EA has reiterated the importance of responsible fishing practices and called on both fishermen and beachgoers to refrain from discarding nets, ropes or plastic waste into the sea.

Additionally, the authority urged the public not to approach or interfere with stranded marine animals. “It is crucial to avoid disturbing marine wildlife and to maintain a safe distance, whether at sea or along the shore,” an EA spokesperson said.

The authority also encouraged immediate reporting of any sightings of distressed or deceased marine animals to ensure proper handling and data collection.

EA called for stronger cooperation between local communities and environmental agencies to safeguard Oman’s rich and fragile marine biodiversity.

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