Alonissos: Turkish Fishing Boats Enter Protected Marine Park

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Two Turkish fishing vessels were detected inside the National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades, near the island of Piperi, an area subject to some of Greece’s strictest environmental protection measures.

The incident reportedly occurred on the evening of August 17, when the two vessels were spotted moving and fishing within the protected marine park.

Authorities responsible for managing the park notified the Hellenic Coast Guard. A Coast Guard vessel from Skiathos was dispatched to the area, but by the time it arrived, the Turkish fishing boats had already left. They were reported to be more than 10 nautical miles away from the location.

Strict protection around Piperi

The National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades was the first marine protected area established in Greece. It covers Alonissos, six smaller islands, including Piperi, as well as numerous rocky islets, with the protected area spanning approximately 2,315 square kilometres.

Piperi is located within the park’s most strictly protected zone and is particularly important for the endangered Mediterranean monk seal, Monachus monachus. The island supports one of the species’ most significant populations in the Mediterranean.

Special restrictions apply around Piperi. Vessels are prohibited from approaching within three nautical miles of the island, while visits to the island itself are also prohibited.

The restrictions apply to all vessels, including local professional fishing boats, reflecting the importance of the area for the protection of marine wildlife and the preservation of the park’s sensitive ecosystem.

Source: Athens Voice

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