Govt declares V. Vattaru protected area

The government has designated V. Vattaru and its surrounding area as a protected site.

The decision was announced in a gazette notification issued on Tuesday by the Ministry of Environment Maldives.

Vattaru is a geographical atoll located north of Meemu Atoll. While the island itself covers 1.4 hectares, the protected area extends across more than 9,700 hectares.

According to the Ministry, the site contains habitats that support a range of biodiversity. Features identified in the notification include a wetland on the western side of the island, mangrove habitats, and populations of Ironwood trees and other plant species.

Bird species recorded in the area include Grey Herons, Great Crested Terns, White-breasted Waterhens and Ruddy Turnstones. The surrounding marine area was also noted for grouper populations.

The Ministry said the purpose of the designation is to conserve the area and protect marine species considered at risk locally and internationally.

Activities prohibited on the island include removing nests or eggs, introducing non-native species, undertaking development or infrastructure works, and using lights in ways that disturb wildlife or attract fish at night.

In the surrounding marine area, land reclamation, dredging, extraction of coral, sand or pebbles, and anchoring are prohibited.

Additional restrictions on land include lighting fires, visiting the island between 5:30pm and 6:30am, entering during bird nesting seasons, cutting trees, and carrying out agricultural activities.

Activities that may be permitted under special regulations include public and tourist visits, nature-based recreation, scientific research, and restoration work.