Hanifaru Bay watchtower to be placed in Dharavandhoo

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced last night that a watchtower will be established in B. Dharavandhoo to monitor the protected Hanifaru Bay area.

The Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve Office, established in 2013, and the watchtower, are currently located in B. Eydhafushi.

During the President's ongoing visit to Baa Atoll, the President visited Dharavandhoo yesterday where he met with residents. At the meeting, the President acknowledged that Dharavandhoo has a burgeoning local tourism industry. He said that Hanifaru Bay, located close to Dharavandhoo, is a key tourist attraction.

He announced that further initiatives are planned to increase revenue generated from Hanifaru Bay. Construction of an additional watchtower, this one to be located in Dharavandhoo, will be included in next year's budget, he said.

He said that the government will facilitate convenient ways for those in the local tourism industry in Dharavandhoo to use Hanifaru Bay.

Dhonfanu Council President Ahmed Irshad also raised concerns yesterday about Eydhafushi managing the Hanifaru Bay when its location is closest to Bodufanu instead. He requested the President to transfer oversight of Hanifaru Bay to the Dhonfanu Council.

The Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve Office charges a fee of USD 10 to 20 from tourists snorkeling in the area, while locals are charged USD 2. The funds are used for environmental protection efforts in Baa Atoll.