Politics
Thailand Launches 'SAVE OUR DUGONG' Initiative to Protect Marine Life
Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin has introduced the 'SAVE OUR DUGONG' campaign, targeting 12 high-risk areas across five Andaman provinces to eliminate human-caused dugong fatalities.
On August 18, 2026, Khaosod Online reported that Thailand’s Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Suchart Chomklin, has elevated the 'SAVE OUR DUGONG' initiative to protect the country’s endangered dugong population. The program focuses on 12 specific high-risk zones across five provinces along the Andaman coast. These areas have been categorized based on two primary threats: six locations prone to boat collisions and six areas where fishing gear poses a significant entanglement risk.
The initiative aims to achieve zero human-caused dugong deaths by implementing stricter regulations on vessel traffic and fishing equipment. Minister Suchart emphasized that the goal is not to restrict livelihoods but to create a balanced system where local communities and marine ecosystems can coexist safely.
For residents and travelers, this initiative may lead to new maritime navigation rules and adjustments to local fishing practices in the affected Andaman regions. While the government has announced these urgent measures, specific details regarding the exact enforcement dates and the full scope of the new maritime restrictions remain to be confirmed. The ministry maintains that these efforts are essential for preserving Thailand’s rare marine biodiversity while ensuring sustainable use of coastal resources.