Cambodia installs cameras to protect endangered Mekong dolphins

The Cambodian Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries is installing automated cameras and an advanced monitoring system at a conservation centre in Kratie province to protect Mekong dolphins from illegal fishing.

The new system will transmit images and data to the Mekong Dolphin Monitoring, Surveillance and Conservation Centre. The ministry says these tools will help officials identify high-risk areas and plan patrols to respond more quickly to illegal fishing activities.

The project receives support from WWF and the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Special Fund to modernize fisheries conservation and law enforcement. Im Rachna, an undersecretary of state at the ministry, led a tour of the Anlung Kampi Dolphin Conservation Guard Station to inspect the new equipment. The ministry plans to use a video data storage system capable of recording dolphins and may use solar power to lower electricity costs.

Officials also intend to work with international experts to improve staff training and organizational structures. The ministry says these measures aim to ensure the long-term protection of the dolphins, which are a key natural heritage asset. Im Rachna noted that the country has already increased the number of cases where officials suppressed illegal fishing and confiscated prohibited equipment.