The government has designated Bodu Hithi Reef and Okkobe Reef in Kaafu Atoll as environmentally protected areas.
These lagoons are rich in marine life and popular with tourists, but they face a potential threat from the government’s Gulhifarhu dredging project.
The Environment Ministry said it would protect the lagoons from Thursday to prevent damage caused by dredging works. The lagoons will be managed in accordance with nature reserve regulations.
Bodu Hithi:
- Located in the western part of Male Atoll
- Tuna, reef fish and coral habitat
- Protected endangered species include napoleon fish, turtles, manta rays, grey reef sharks, whitetip sharks and blacktip reef sharks.
- In sunny seasons, oceanic manta rays gather here for cleaning.
Okkoberagoon:
- Located on the east side of the city
- There is an abundance of coral in the numerous caves and overhangs.
- Threatened species include the grey reef shark, Napoleon fish and turtles.
Both lagoons are popular with divers and tourists.
Activities prohibited in the following areas:
- Land reclamation and dredging
- Rock, sand and coral removal
- anchor
- Structural development works or infrastructure
- Pollutant emissions
- Aquaculture or mariculture
- Feeding
- Install lights to illuminate the area at night
