Initiative launched to expand green cover in Duqm, Bidiyah

Muscat: Initiatives to expand green cover in the interior parts of Oman are underway to improve the quality of the environment.

In collaboration with the Environment Authority and the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), a tree planting campaign was carried out in Duqm.

“An afforestation event is being carried out in stages to increase the green cover in Duqm by planting those types of trees that studies have proven to be suitable for the climate,” said a statement from the Special Economic Zone Authority of Duqm (SEZAD).

“The event was carried out in four locations under the patronage of Ahmed Al Dheeb, vice president of OPAZ and Dr Abdullah Al Omari, president of the Environment Authority,” added the organisation.

Also present were the deputy governor of Duqm, a Shura Council representative for the wilayat, and a member of the Municipal Council of Duqm, along with the participation of many companies operating in the region.

“Afforestation activities included planting different types of trees such as ghaf, sidr, tamarind, African acacia and others characterised by their tolerance to temperatures, drought and salinity,” said SEZAD.

The Environment Authority also organised a similar campaign in the Wilayat of Bidiyah, alongside Be’ah, the Omani Women’s Association, and other volunteers, who planted 300 wild trees in the area.

“This planting comes as a continuation of the national initiative to cultivate 10 million wild trees in the various governorates of the Sultanate with the aim of increasing and improving vegetation cover in pastoral and degraded natural areas, as well as encouraging community participation towards preserving wild plants and plant diversity,” said the government body.

In keeping with further developments in the Governorate of Wusta, where Duqm is located, SEZAD has also asked for local companies to contact them for any future tourism initiatives.

“We would like to announce our desire to cooperate with entrepreneurs from Duqm,” said the authority.

“Owners of small and medium enterprises working in the tourism sector, who wish to implement future activities, must register via e-mail stating the details of the employer, the activity the company conducts, and the location of the business.”