Save wonderful creatures
I RECENTLY joined a day trip looking for sightings of the Chinese White Dolphin, around Chek Lap Kok.
I wanted to see one, before the species became extinct. It is unbelievable to think that something of that size and beauty has been co-existing so close to one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. However, there are only around 100 left and some 15 have been found dead in the last few years.
When reports described the dolphins as being pink, I was a little sceptical. However, when we luckily spotted one I was captivated by its grace and beauty. And yes, it was pink. The Provisional Airport Authority's (PAA) future construction of a fuel depot at Sha Chau will further contribute to the eradication of this wonderful creature. Many alternative sites have been proposed, but rejected by the PAA. Although a sanctuary has been proposed this is a public relations stunt to ameliorate public criticism.
The dolphins need the shallow water around Chek Lap Kok and Sha Chau to feed and cannot simply be enticed or transported to a small designated reserve for safety. The accumulation of heavily polluted water, dredging and further construction will only result in their demise.
It is time that the Government stepped in to help protect this species, because it seems that nobody wants to be held accountable.
CAROLINE ROBERTSON Mid-Levels
