ERA probes complaints of illegal sand mining in Malé atoll lagoons

The Environmental Regulatory Authority (ERA) said on Monday that it has received complaints alleging illegal sand extraction linked to some approved land reclamation projects in lagoons in the Malé Atoll.

The authority said similar concerns, including video footage, have been circulating on social media. Some of the complaints allege that dredgers have entered areas near resort boundaries and removed sand beyond permitted zones.

According to the ERA, it regularly receives complaints related to lagoon dredging and reclamation projects in the Malé Atoll. Videos shared online show dredging activity taking place close to resort areas, raising concerns among the public and resort operators.

In one video circulating online, a member of the public warned that such activity could affect the marine environment and have negative consequences for tourism and the wider economy. He said dredging near resort boundaries could be visible to tourists and shared widely through social media.

Several resorts have submitted complaints to the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Environment regarding sand extraction near their properties. The concerns raised include contamination of seawater used by resorts, impacts on marine life, and difficulties in conducting activities such as snorkelling.

In a written complaint to the ministry, one resort said such practices could affect the visitor experience and future bookings.

The ERA said preventing such incidents requires proper environmental assessments and strict implementation of mitigation measures identified in approved Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports.

Complaints received by the authority include allegations of failing to implement measures to minimise environmental harm, extracting sand from areas outside approved boundaries, and continuing work during adverse weather conditions and periods when yellow alerts have been issued by the Maldives Meteorological Service.

The ERA said investigations are under way and legal action will be taken against parties found to be in violation of permit conditions. The authority has reminded all project operators to comply with the EIA reports and permits issued by the agency.