Abu Dhabi Ports leads major coral relocation and conservation project ahead of heavy rail terminal construction
ABU DHABI: Abu Dhabi Ports recently launched its major coral relocation and conservation project in the waters surrounding Khalifa Port in the UAE’s capital while advancing with its world-leading maritime infrastructure.
Conducted in partnership with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), Khalifa Port’s coral relocation forms part of a series of mitigation measures to lessen the environmental impact from dredging, while reclaiming waters that separate the offshore port’s breakwater from the spectacular Ras Ghanada coral reef, which is situated nearby.
The plan was unveiled ahead of the construction of a heavy rail terminal that will connect Abu Dhabi Ports’ flagship, deep-water port to the UAE’s future rail network, Etihad Rail.
“Championing and protecting Abu Dhabi’s natural aquatic ecosystems have always been key considerations in the ongoing development of Khalifa Port, one of world’s most advanced deep-water ports. Abu Dhabi Ports is committed to driving both local and global initiatives aimed at introducing new technologies and solutions that will protect marine life and limit the impact of port activities on the local environment,” said Mohamed Eidha Tannaf Al Menhali, Port Director – Khalifa Port, Abu Dhabi Ports.
“We are collaborating with respected expert marine consultants, engineers and academics, in addition to partnering with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) to help conserve the coral colonies at Ras Ghanada, the most unique, diverse, and vibrant coral community in the Arabian Gulf.”
Typically undertaken during dredging and reclamation works, coral reef relocation is a critical exercise in port operations and is deemed essential for protecting local marine wildlife ecosystems.
