These two lagoons were protected under the Biodiversity Offset Plan, a compensation for environmental damage caused by the Gulhi Falhu reclamation project.
The government has decided to protect two large lagoons in Kaafu atoll, namely Bodu Hithi Thila and Okkobe Thila. These lagoons, rich in marine life, are popular spots among divers and tourists.
According to the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy, these two lagoons were protected under the Biodiversity Offset Plan, a compensation for environmental damage caused by the Gulhi Falhu reclamation project.
The Ministry announced on Thursday that Kaafu atoll Bodu Hithi Thila area and Kaafu atoll Okkobe Thila area have been declared protected areas under the Environmental Protection and Conservation Act.
Located in the western part of Male' atoll, Bodu Hithi Thila covers an area of 127.47 hectares. Situated in the middle of the channel between Kaafu atoll Rasfari Lagoon and Ulaani Lagoon, it is home to an abundance of coral, reef fish, and deep-sea fish.
Protected and endangered species such as humphead wrasse, manta ray, turtle, grey reef shark, silvertip shark, and oceanic white tip shark are also found in the area.
It has been recorded as a gathering place for large numbers of fish during the Iruvai northeast monsoon (dry season) and is a popular diving area for locals and tourists.
Okkobe Thila is a large area of 379.31 hectares in the eastern part of Male' atoll. It has a high percentage of corals with numerous small caves and overhangs.
The area hosts various types of fish, crustaceans, and colorful soft corals.
Research indicates that 73 species of fish live in the area, including endangered species such as grey reef shark, white tip reef shark, humphead wrasse, and turtles. Okkobe Thila is also a popular site for divers.
- Exploration and mining for oil, gas, or minerals of any kind
- Littering
- Land reclamation
- Removal of stones, sand, coral, and limestone
- Anchoring
- Development and infrastructure
- Discharge of pollutants or outfall
- Aquaculture or mariculture work
- Removing, killing, abusing, and capture of species in the area except for sustainable fishing
- Removal of eggs or damage to the nest of any species
- Introducing species not native to the area
- Feeding or adding food for any species, including fish and birds
- Illuminating the area at night
- Making noise that disrupts the habits of the animals
- Catching any species of small fish other than the fish used as bait in Maldives (including all types of juvenile fish in aquariums and tanks and reef fish)
- Luring fish to the surface using light at night (fishing under the Fisheries Act and fishing using light from a vessel with a valid license issued for tuna fishing using handlines are allowed)
The Ministry stated that under the prescribed procedure, visits to the protected areas, research, and work for restoration or rehabilitation purposes will be allowed.
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