The Wildlife Protection Department of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change in Doha, Qatar reported around 1,000 violations of environmental rules during the first quarter of 2024. These violations included various activities such as throwing waste at undesignated places, entering meadows, using bird call whistles and camping without a permit. Among the violations recorded, 407 were related to towing violating cabins on the beaches, 219 for setting up camps and animal farms without permission, and 97 for raising dust without adequate measures. Additionally, there were 50 violations related to camels and 93 violations of other animals for not complying with grazing bans.
The Ministry is taking actions to address these violations by determining vehicle routes for meadows, establishing barriers for cars to enter greenland, and removing barriers for individuals to access the land. They are also dispatching patrols throughout the day to provide guidance to visitors and placing sign boards with instructions for motorists to use designated roads and avoid areas of trees and wild plants. The Ministry is also working on rehabilitation efforts, which include planting trees at meadows to help them return again. Director of the Wildlife Development Department, Muhammad Al Khanji, emphasized the importance of protecting the local environment and stated that the aim of taking actions against violators is to reduce violations rather than to punish individuals.
In Qatar, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has been actively monitoring and addressing environmental violations to protect wildlife and natural habitats. The recorded violations during the first quarter of 2024 included a range of activities such as littering, unauthorized camping, and disturbing ecosystems by using bird call whistles or entering meadows. These violations have detrimental effects on the environment and can disrupt the balance of fragile ecosystems. By taking steps to enforce environmental laws and educate the public about the importance of preserving natural areas, the Ministry is working to ensure the sustainable management of Qatar’s natural resources.
One of the key focuses of the Ministry’s efforts is to establish designated vehicle routes for meadows and nature reserves, while also implementing measures to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive areas. The installation of sign boards with instructions for motorists and visitors is aimed at promoting responsible behavior and minimizing negative impacts on the environment. By providing guidance and advice to visitors, the Ministry hopes to raise awareness about the importance of protecting wildlife and conserving natural habitats. Additionally, the Ministry’s rehabilitation efforts, such as planting trees in meadows, demonstrate a commitment to restoring and preserving ecosystems for future generations.
Director Al Khanji highlighted the importance of rehabilitation operations in protecting the local environment and ensuring the long-term sustainability of natural areas. By creating designated areas for waste collection and vehicles, the Ministry aims to mitigate the negative effects of human activities on the environment. These measures are essential for preserving the biodiversity and ecological balance of Qatar’s natural landscapes. By working collaboratively with stakeholders and the public, the Ministry is taking proactive steps to address environmental violations and promote responsible behavior towards wildlife and nature.
