Fuvahmulah City council warns against illegal tree uprooting

The Fuvahmulah City Council on Sunday issued a warning against the illegal cutting down of trees and palms near the island's shore and other areas.

According to the Regulation for Protection and Preservation of Island Vegetation and Flora in the Maldives, cutting down or uprooting trees and palms located within 20 meters of any island's shore is a criminal offence. This was stated by the council in its recent warning statement.

The council also emphasized that cutting down or uprooting trees violated its policies. It reiterated that any such actions, as well as their relocation, must follow current legal procedures and regulations.

"We advise everyone to respect and obey the regulations and procedures in place. We will take necessary action against any party found in breach of this," the council's statement read.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of the Maldives received 55 cases of trees being cut down or uprooted in 2022. According to the EPA, this was also the most frequently reported issue to the authority last year.

Illegal cutting or uprooting of trees and palms is a widespread problem in the country.