Eviction of injured turtles suspended
EPA announced on Thursday that it has temporarily suspended permission to send turtles to such aquariums.
By
Aminath Shifleen
The government has temporarily suspended permission to send turtles and tortoises that are disabled due to various types of injuries, to aquariums abroad.
While there is a ban in the Maldives regarding the capture of sea turtles, it can be seen in the middle of the sea some turtles trapped in floated debris. Due to the long period of time they are stuck that way, the object is severely injured by the time it can be rescued.
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Some resorts have centres for treatment of injured turtles
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But even after treatment, some creatures are disabled for the rest of their lives
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Since they become something that cannot be released back to its natural environment, they are sent to large aquariums abroad
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The last time turtles were sent this way was to the UK’s largest aquarium, late last month
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on Thursday that it has temporarily suspended permission to send turtles to such aquariums.
As per the sources:
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Permission was put on hold till turtle management plan is gazetted
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No permission will be issued till a final decision is taken in this regard and an announcement is made
Rescue centres have been set up in three different parts of the country to protect and treat turtles:
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Marine Savers in Four Seasons Kudahura resort
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Atoll Marine Center in Lh. Naifaru
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The Olive Ridley Project facility at Coco Palm Dhunikolhu resort
