The operation, held on Sunday (Jan 25), resulted in the recovery of 480kg of discarded fishing nets and 92kg of old anchors, items identified as posing ongoing risks to coral reefs and marine life.
The activity was organised by the Third Naval Area Command in collaboration with the Maritime Security Command Region 3 and Royal Thai Navy Task Force 642, with support from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, the Phuket Association, PTT LNT Plc, the Marine Foundation and volunteer divers.
Vice Admiral Veerudom Muangchin, Commander of the Third Naval Area Command and Director of the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre Region 3 (Thai-MECC 3), presided over the opening ceremony alongside Sarisa Muangchin, President of the Third Naval Area Command Wives’ Association.
Officials noted that abandoned fishing gear and submerged debris remain a “silent threat” to marine ecosystems, capable of damaging coral reefs and entangling or injuring marine animals. The removal of the debris at Kata Beach was reported to have significantly reduced environmental risks in the area.
The underwater cleanup was carried out as part of a broader marine conservation and training programme held in honour of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya.
As part of the programme, an educational activity was also held at the Phuket Aquarium for students from Baan Laem Panwa School. The session aimed to raise awareness of the importance of marine resources and promote environmental stewardship among young people.
Organisers said the combined underwater cleanup, educational outreach and community participation were intended to strengthen cooperation between government agencies, private sector partners and local communities.
The Third Naval Area Command said the initiative was designed to promote long-term conservation, restoration and sustainable protection of Thailand’s marine resources, in line with Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya’s vision of preserving the nation’s seas for future generations.