By now, you must have known about the devastating effect that Gonu had on our reefs, particularly in the East Coast. EDA went to Dibba Rock last week to assess the damage and Emirates Today carried the story. Please click on the link below:
http://www.emiratestodayonline.com/Default.aspx?selpg=649 (A second story is also carried in the same link - just click on page 4 at the left column or use this link : )
We are consulting with coral reef experts on what we should do.
Meanwhile, you can help us by diving at other dive spots in the UAE and send us high resolution photos and your observations on the damage in the sites. We may include this in the September issue of our newsletter. We already have some photos from Dibba Rock and Inchcape. Soon, some volunteer divers will check out Martini Rock.
Please make sure to go diving with EDA Dive centers - http://www.emiratesdiving.com/DiveCenters.htm The diving industry needs our support at this time.
Thank you and we look forward to receiving your photos and observations.
Tel #: +971 4 3939390
Fax # : +971 4 3939391
Website: www.emiratesdiving.com
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We have also received the following comments from divers:
1)
When we went to Dibba on June 12, the divers saw some turtles.
According to the marine biologist who was with us, there were more marine life was visible now because those who were nocturnal were left "homeless" because of the coral damage.
Mel
2)
Hope things are going on fine with you & enjoying summer,
justwanted to share with you & the other members the status of the E.Coast marine life after the Storm, as you know i've been iving Dibba Rock since the past 4 years on almost weekly bases that to me its considered to be my backyard garden :-D unfortunately alot of rumors started spreading such as people saying that 90% of the marine life is gone / damaged.
I would like to highlight that its not true as Right now we've got More & richer marine life which shocked me. alot of old dead coral reefs which was covering most of the small one's towards the E.North of the island is cleared & gave a new chance to the newer ones to nourish & grow. the central part of the island were ALL Russian Tourist used to walk, Fish & take corels as trophies is sand cause it was already damaged due to earlier years & got washed with the Storm. Again lets not forget that i surveyed da entire island.
Moe