Propeller guard requirement for SAMPA vessels takes effect from July
The ministry said the measure is intended to support the safe operation of tourism and marine activities within the protected area.
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The deadline for installing propeller guards on vessels operating in the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) will expire at the end of this month, the Ministry of Environment has announced.
The requirement forms part of the South Ari Marine Protected Area Management Plan, which was introduced last year to regulate activities within the protected area.
SAMPA extends one kilometre from the outer reef edge of the islands between the north-west of ADh. Rangali reef and the northern tip of Dhigurah. The area is a destination for whale shark excursions, diving and snorkelling.
In a statement issued on Friday, the ministry said fitting propeller guards is intended to reduce the risk of injuries to people, whale sharks and other marine life.
The ministry said the measure is intended to support the safe operation of tourism and marine activities within the protected area.
The Environment Protection Agency (EPA), also referred to as the Environment Regulatory Authority, said all vessels operating within SAMPA must install propeller guards before 30 June under amendments to the management plan.
According to the authority:
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Only vessels that can demonstrate they have installed propeller guards will be eligible to obtain entry registration permits after the deadline.
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Vessels that have already registered or submit their registration applications before 30 June will be given an additional period to install propeller guards.
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Vessel operators and other users of the protected area are required to comply with the provisions of the SAMPA Management Plan.
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Enforcement action will be taken against operators found to be in breach of the regulations.
The Maldives has recorded a number of incidents in recent years in which swimmers and snorkellers have been struck by boat propellers.
Propeller guards are designed to reduce the risk of contact with rotating propellers while also helping to protect propulsion systems from damage.
