Maldives declares Boduhithi, Okkobe lagoons as protected sites

The government has designated Boduhithi and Okkobe lagoons in Kaafu Atoll as environmentally protected areas.

These lagoons are rich in marine life and popular among tourists. They face potential threats from the government’s Gulhifalhu dredging project.

The Environment Ministry announced the protection of these lagoons from Thursday onwards to prevent damage from the dredging project. The lagoons will be managed according to the Natural Protected Areas Regulations.

Boduhithi:

• Located in the western part of Malé Atoll
• Home to tuna, reef fish, and corals
• Protected and endangered species include Napoleon wrasse, turtles, oceanic manta rays, grey reef sharks, oceanic white tip sharks, and silvertip sharks
• Oceanic manta rays gather here for cleaning during the sunny season

Okkobe Lagoon:

• Located on the east side of the city
• Contains numerous caves and abundant living corals in overhangs
• Endangered species include grey reef sharks, Napoleon wrasse, and turtles

Both lagoons are popular with divers and tourists.

Prohibited activities in these areas:

• Land reclamation and dredging
• Removal of rocks, sand, and corals
• Anchoring
• Structural development work or infrastructure
• Emission of any pollutant
• Aquaculture or mariculture work
• Feeding
• Lighting at night to illuminate the areas