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
   88   89   90   91   92   93   94   95   96   97   98