The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a ruling regarding the environmental damage done to Vaavu Atoll's Anbaaraa island.
According to a letter sent by the EPA's Director General Ibrahim Naeem to the Vaavu Atoll Council on Thursday, a survey conducted by the agency found that certain works had violated the island's Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). However, the investigation showed that the tenant was not responsible for these actions.
Although the letter did not provide additional details about the inquiry, it is known that Handhuvaru Ocean Pvt Ltd, which had leased the island for resort development, will not be held accountable for any wrongdoing. The EPA concluded that the company did not break any laws or regulations. Handhuvaru Ocean Pvt Ltd will be notified of the decision on March 12.
In response to the EPA's verdict, the Vaavu Atoll Council expressed concern. Atoll Council President Shujau Ali stated on Twitter that while the environmental damage caused to Anbaaraa was severe, he was surprised that the resort builders were not responsible for the harm. Ali added that the decision had left residents speechless.
Anbaaraa has been a topic of concern for Vaavu Atoll residents who have made numerous complaints. The atoll council previously noted that soil had been used to cover mangroves, and many trees in the area had been felled. As the deadline for commencing construction on the resort had expired, the residents want the island to be reclaimed by the atoll council.
Last year in October, following a series of protests by residents and the atoll council, the EPA decided to conduct a survey of Anbaaraa. While discussions between the Vaavu Atoll Council and the government regarding the case were held, they did not result in a successful resolution.
Sign In
