Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources has stated that the current government has installed 90 Fish Aggregating Devices (FAD) across the Maldives so far.
There are two types of FADs typically installed in the Maldives. They are sport fishing FADs and those designated for pole-and-line fisheries. According to the ministry, 42 of the 90 anchored FADs are for pole-and-line fisheries while 48 are for sports fishing.
Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam has previously emphasised that no other government had installed as many FADs in the Maldives in the past. While FADs are crucial for fishermen, problems arise if any break away. The ministry has been prioritising the repair of damaged FADs.
According to the ministry, there is high demand for FADs in the Maldives. Currently, there is only one FAD establishment centre in Hulhumale’, creating challenges for FAD deployment. The ministry is working on establishing two new FAD centres in the north and south to meet demand, with the construction of a FAD centre in Funadhoo expected to begin soon.