The government has today announced that it will be accepting applications for membership of the Advisory Council which will be tasked with overseeing the conservation of the South Ari Marine Park (SAMPa).
The government has today announced that it will be accepting applications for membership of the Advisory Council which will be tasked with overseeing the conservation of the South Ari Marine Park (SAMPa) - the designated area in Alif Dhaalu atoll where whale sharks are observed throughout the year.
South Ari Marine Park covers 5140 hectares spanning from the northwest of Alif Dhaalu atoll Rangali reef to the edge of the Dhigurah reef, including the areas 1km outside of the reefs of the intervening islands. The government designated this area as the South Ari Marine Park on July 11, 2019.
In addition to whale sharks, the area features a diverse variety of corals, and marine life, such as turtles, manta rays and other sharks.
An announcement by the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy stated that five members will be appointed to the committee. These are:
- A member representing resorts
- A member representing guest houses or dive centers
- A member representing an NGO active in the area
- A member representing the fisheries industry
- A member representing liveaboards
Responsibilities of the committee include advising on monitoring and conservation of the area, advising on resolving issues that may arise, advising on special events planned to be held in the area and advising on charging a fee from visitors to the park.
The committee members are not offered remuneration.
Deadline for application is extended till December 9.
Sign In