Increase in harm to protected species in Maldives: EPA

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said yesterday that the harm to protected species in the Maldives is increasing year by year.

EPA, which is legally responsible for environmental protection in the Maldives, issued a statement reminding the public that the capture, killing, consumption, and trade of protected species and their parts are prohibited under law.

According to EPA, many species found in the Maldives are protected under the Protected Species Regulation, under the Environmental Protection and Conservation Act. These include:

- Five species of tortoises and turtles

- One species of Indian Black Turtle

- 207 species of birds

- All species of rays found in the Maldives

- Whale sharks

“These species provide important benefits to the Maldives' natural environment and are closely tied to the lifestyle, culture, and economy in the Maldives,” EPA said.

EPA said that these protected species are vital for tourism, particularly "nature tourism," which is a key attraction for visitors. The presence of these animals and birds in the Maldives' environment is a major reason tourists visit the country time and time again.

Seabirds have long played a crucial role in Maldivian fisheries, and other protected marine species are essential for maintaining the country’s ecosystem, the EPA added.

"Unfortunately, we have observed an increasing number of instances where these species and their habitats are being harmed," the statement read.

This includes an increase in activities such as feeding or touching protected animals, vessels chasing species like whale sharks, and large crowds approaching them simultaneously.

Large flocks of people gathering to view whale sharks is a significant issue in the Maldives. In response, the government introduced new regulations last month to protect these species.

EPA also warned that it will take action against violators of these regulations.