Page 93 - Navy Journal 219
P. 93
Marine Pollution ...
in district development plan as a basis to start a long term investment program to
limit the pollution level in the coast.
Marine pollution is not a new issue but largely ignored, especially in the third
world countries. Although many initiatives have been taken in the recent past but
it is yet to get required momentum. Starting from a tiny wooden boat operating
in the river up to the large merchant ships, all have their shares of pollution. All
wastes, garbage, sewerage etc connected to river need to be stopped from direct
discharging. Any such disposal in the river, channel or sea should be treated first.
Source of pollution in main land and its delivery to river system to be checked
within the legal frame work. Finally, to make a pollution free sea and pursue blue
economy in support of Delta Plan 2100 massive awareness programme through
media, newspaper, local campaign and effective enforcement of law is urgently
require.
Recommendations: Considering the above discussion following are
recommended:
a. A wide range legislation complying the international standard may be adopted
for the sustainable ocean governance in Bangladesh.
b. A detailed National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan may be finalized and
implemented for Bangladesh as soon as possible.
c. All oil handling agencies and other stake holders may be requested to prepare
their oil spill contingency plan.
d. Dedicated PCV may be procured for BCG in future. In addition BN and port
authorities may also acquire more capability in this aspect.
e. More manpower may be trained on oil pollution response operations.
f. Helicopter with OSD spraying facilities may be purchased for effective
operation
g. Regular exercises on oil spill response may be arranged involving all stake
holders.
h. Steps may be taken to aware general people against marine pollution through
media campaign and NGO activities.
j. Number of waste treatment plants may be built along the coast for waste
treatment before throwing into water.
k. Activities of all inland tankers, coaster, passenger liners and other small
ships/boats need to be brought under strict discipline and law enforcement.
l. Knowledge on Eco-literacy may be transmitted to the children in the primary
school level.
m. Green tax may be imposed to ship and organization polluting marine
environment.
n. Surveillance and monitoring initiatives may be increased through regulatory
and administration implementation.
85

