Environmental groups in Davao City have reported extensive damage to coral reefs at the construction site of the Samal Island-Davao City Connector (SIDC) bridge project, even before the official initiation of the bridge’s construction. The crane way structure, often mistaken for the actual bridge, serves as a passage for construction equipment and for the installation of pillars but has resulted in coral destruction in the area.
Marine biologist John Lacson, who is involved in legal actions to halt the bridge’s construction, highlighted the dead coral reefs under the crane way. The bridge project, connecting Davao City and Samal Island, is designed to enhance accessibility and transportation between the two locations.
Construction plans for the SIDC project outline a four-lane bridge spanning approximately 4.01 kilometers over the Pakiputan Strait. The bridge aims to significantly reduce travel time between the city and the island, intending to boost local tourism and economic activities.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) reported significant progress on the bridge construction, with the project anticipated to complete by 2027. However, environmentalists express concerns over the potential ecological damage, including risks to the biodiversity that the coral reefs support.
Reports indicate that the corals suffered from silt accumulation and algae overgrowth, which contribute to their demise. With coral reefs playing a crucial role in marine ecosystems, their destruction poses a threat to the local marine life and the communities depending on it.
The SIDC project, with an estimated budget of PHP 23 billion, is expected to connect major roads in Davao City and Samal Island. The project has been under scrutiny due to its environmental implications, prompting stakeholders to advocate for alternative solutions that protect the marine habitat.
Local scientists and environmental advocates have filed a Writ of Kalikasan to halt the bridge construction, emphasizing the irreversible damage to the coral reefs and its subsequent impact on the ecosystem. The legal action seeks to prevent further destruction and preserve the marine environment in the Davao Gulf.
The SIDC project is a significant infrastructure development funded by China Road and Bridge Corporation. It aims to enhance the region’s connectivity and promote tourism, yet environmental groups insist on addressing the ecological concerns before proceeding.
The bridge project, while projected to improve infrastructure, faces opposition from those prioritizing environmental preservation and sustainable development. The ongoing legal proceedings and environmental assessments continue to influence the course of the SIDC construction.
