The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources has introduced a Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) dedicated to sports fishing in Shaviyani Atoll. Positioned approximately four nautical miles southeast of Nalandhoo, this initiative underscores the ministry's commitment to enhancing fishing infrastructure and supporting the sports fishing sector's rapid growth.
Purpose-built for sports fishing activities, the new FAD addresses increasing demand for specialised equipment. Its installation follows discussions held earlier this year with the Feydhoo Island Council of Shaviyani Atoll, highlighting the importance of expanding sports fishing infrastructure.
The deployment reflects a broader national programme, with similar devices placed strategically across the country to improve fishing opportunities. Recently, another FAD was positioned five nautical miles southwest of Dhigelaabadhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, further strengthening the network of devices supporting sports and traditional fishing. Each FAD is assigned a unique identification number, ensuring effective management.
Within this programme, two distinct categories of FADs play a pivotal role. 'Dhoshi Kandhufathi' devices cater to skipjack tuna fishing using pole-and-line methods, while "Vadhu Kandufathi" devices, such as the one in Shaviyani Atoll, serve the specific needs of sports fishing enthusiasts. Nationwide, 65 devices are dedicated to traditional tuna fishing, alongside 26 designated for sports fishing.
These sports fishing-specific devices attract marine life by providing artificial shade through floating structures, enhancing local fishing opportunities. To simplify identification, they are painted yellow and installed three to six nautical miles offshore from inhabited islands—distinguishing them from pole-and-line FADs.
While deploying new devices remains a priority, maintaining existing structures is equally critical. The ministry oversees a programme to repair damaged devices, ensuring their operational integrity.
Production and installation are centred in Hulhumalé, where facilities are equipped to meet growing demands. Recognising this need, plans are underway to establish additional centres in the northern and southern regions, including Funadhoo in Shaviyani Atoll and Addu Atoll.