No action yet on Hithaadhoo incident: Ministry

Environment Ministry has stated that no penalties had yet been levied on the tourists who had damaged the protected island of GA. Hithaadhoo.

• The island is a famed spot for migratory birds and features unique flora.

The island, designated as a protected island, was damaged by a group of tourists who had embarked on the island without required permits. They were escorted off the island by officials from Kolamaafushi Island Council and GA Atoll Council, as well as Police officers.

Speaking to RaajjeMV, Environment Ministry media official reported that Environment Protection Agency (EPA) was investigating the case. The official also said they were in discussions with the agents, but said they had not yet arrived at a penalty figure.

Environment Ministry said that safaris that bring in tourists were brought in through an agent and that issues like this arose due to negligence and lack of awareness among the agents. The Ministry said that agents have to be aware if the island had been designated as a protected area. Environment Ministry also said that even if penalties were levied on the perpetrators, the damages were irreversible.