Following stricter national regulations on whale shark conservation introduced in November last year, the government of Maldives has now moved to enforce propeller guards on all excursion boats within the next three months.
The new regulation will be expanded to areas beyond South-Ari Marine Park (SAMPA) where whale shark activity is observed. The SAMPA is a world-renowned area, and the most significant feature of this area is that whale sharks can be seen here throughout the year.
Special speedboats will patrol areas with whale shark activity to monitor vessels that take tourists to these sites.
Minister of climate change, environment, and energy, Thoriq Ibrahim, remarked: “Sometimes, over 100 tourists swim after a single whale shark; with no set policy. Even speedboats venture into this area.”
“By mandating propeller guards, we are taking a significant step towards ensuring the safety of both whale sharks and those who admire them. This measure reflects our commitment to sustainable tourism and the preservation of our marine environment.” added Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO & managing director of Visit Maldives.
