President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has announced his decision to designate 12 ecologically rich areas in Baa Atoll and Vaavu Atoll as environmentally protected. The decision follows the cabinet's recommendation and was made after a thorough Cabinet deliberation on a paper submitted by the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Technology.
The 12 areas will be granted protected status under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act. The areas are Kavarufalhu, Fohtheyo, Hingaakulhi Lagoon, Thuduhuraa, Ruh Huri Huraa, Rakeedhoo Corner, Fushifaru Reef, and Huraa Lagoon in Vaavu Atoll. The areas in Baa Atoll are Huraafaru, Dharavandhoo Thila, Nelivaru, and Innafushi.
Each area has been identified as having rich ecosystems that host various fauna and marine species. Their preservation is deemed crucial for future generations of Maldivians. The relevant ministries were consulted regarding the protection of these areas.
Protecting these sites aligns with the administration's Strategic Action Plan 2019–2023, which mandates the protection of at least 10% of coral reefs and 20% of wetlands and mangroves. The Environmental Protection and Preservation Act also stipulates the protection of at least one island, one lagoon, one reef, and one wetland from each atoll.