LGA revokes Dhonfanu council’s ban on diving for protests

The Local Government Authority (LGA) has revoked a decision by the B. Dhonfanu Island Council to close parts of the island’s coastline and nearby sea following protests over the government’s decision not to proceed with a land reclamation project.

The reclamation plan was announced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu during a visit to Baa Atoll last month. However, amid concerns from environmental groups and members of the public about potential damage to the Hanifaru Bay Biosphere Reserve and the impact on tourism, the government decided to cancel the project.

In response, Dhonfanu Council imposed a temporary ban on diving and snorkelling within 700 metres of the island’s reef.

The LGA said in a statement on Thursday that the council’s action was unlawful, citing the Decentralisation Act, which allows citizens to carry out activities not expressly prohibited by law within council jurisdictions.

President Muizzu has said the reclamation project was initiated at the request of residents and halted after receiving information that it was no longer required. The council, however, has disputed this, stating that residents had not been consulted and had not requested the cancellation.