Bangkok: Concerned about the dugong situation, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Chalermchai Sri-on has expressed alarm over the increasing number of dugong deaths in Trang Province. He has directed the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources and the Department of National Parks to urgently address the issue by monitoring and implementing corrective measures.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chalermchai highlighted that the decline in seagrass, the primary food source for dugongs, is the main reason behind their continuous deaths. The deterioration of seagrass is largely attributed to volatile weather conditions affecting seawater quality. Reports indicate a 50% reduction in seagrass abundance in key areas like Had Chao Mai National Park and Libong Wildlife Sanctuary, prompting dugongs to migrate in search of food.

In response, both the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources and the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation have been tasked with developing strategie
s to address the dugong survival crisis. This includes restoring natural seagrass beds and sourcing alternative food supplies outside of natural habitats to support the dugong population.

Furthermore, efforts are underway to raise awareness among local communities and agencies in areas where dugongs are migrating. The goal is to foster collaborative conservation efforts to prevent further loss of these endangered marine animals. Both departments have been instructed to ensure that measures are implemented promptly and to report on their progress regularly.

Mr. Chalermchai discussed these concerns before departing for the 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. As the head of the Thai delegation, he will present Thailand’s statement at the conference scheduled for November 19-20, 2024. Upon returning, he plans to personally oversee the implementation of solutions to the dugong crisis.