According to the Ministry of Environment, some of the protected bird species in Maldives nest on the island. The reef connected to the island is also home to a variety of endangered fish and marine life.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched an investigation into the illegal extraction of sand from Shaviyani atoll Farukolhu, a protected island.
Shaviyani Atoll Council said that a large number of people have been using extraction pumps to illegally remove sand from beaches, sandbanks, and lagoons. The council is collaborating with the EPA to investigate the matter.
While sand extraction is permitted for essential purposes, designated areas have been allocated for each constituency within the atoll. However, the use of machinery for extraction is prohibited in these areas.
The council emphasized the need for residents’ cooperation to protect and preserve the atoll’s protected areas.
The protected reef is home to seven different types of mangroves and a large wetland area.
Additionally, the island is a host for endangered plant species such as Kandoo, Burevi, and Thakafathi. Due to its rich biodiversity, the island also serves as a habitat for various bird species.
According to the Ministry of Environment, some of the protected bird species in Maldives nest on the island. The reef connected to the island is also home to a variety of endangered fish and marine life.
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