Songkhla Lake bridge project raises concerns for Thailand’s last Irrawaddy dolphins

[webfact]

Photo from Facebook

 

Concerns have been raised over the potential impact of a proposed bridge across Songkhla Lake in Thailand on the critically endangered Irrawaddy dolphin population. Environmentalist Dr Thon Thamrongnawasawat highlighted the importance of conservation efforts to protect the last 14 remaining Thai dolphins.

 

Dr Thon Thamrongnawasawat, an expert in marine science and environmental issues, took to social media to express concerns about the bridge project, which aims to ease transportation for local residents. The project has received support from international financing, but concerns are raised about the potential impact it could have on the already scarce population of the Irrawaddy dolphin species inhabiting the lake.

 

Supporters of the bridge argue that it would bring significant benefits to the local community, but international financiers are said to be wary due to the potential risks it poses to Thailand’s last group of freshwater dolphins. While alternative funding sources are available, the future of the project remains uncertain.

 

Dr Thon explained that, in recent months, the commitment to dolphin conservation has increased, leading to more research and collaboration between construction agencies and conservation groups. This has led to the discovery of the dolphins on two occasions in the past three months, after a lengthy period without sightings.

 

by Nattapong Westwood

 

Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/songkhla-lake-bridge-project-raises-concerns-for-thailands-last-irrawaddy-dolphins

 

-- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-05-31

 

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[VinnieK]

Sure..blind dolphins will be colliding with the bridge pillars. ????‍♂️

[hotchilli]

1 hour ago, webfact said:

The project has received support from international financing, but concerns are raised about the potential impact it could have on the already scarce population of the Irrawaddy dolphin species inhabiting the lake.

So is it a lake or an open water source, I'm sure the dolphins will survive.

[nobodysfriend]

2 hours ago, webfact said:

to protect the last 14 remaining Thai dolphins.

 

2 hours ago, webfact said:

it would bring significant benefits to the local community

<deleted> the local community .

[Stocky]

8 hours ago, webfact said:

Concerns have been raised over the potential impact of a proposed bridge across Songkhla Lake 

Which one, there are two bridge projects?

One is to link Krasae Sin district with Khao Chaison district in Phatthalung. The second is to replace the ferry and connect Songkhla Town with Singhanakhon.