By The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of the Maldives has issued a directive urging an immediate cessation of ray feeding practices across the nation. The agency raised concerns over the growing trend, citing the adverse impacts on the natural behavior and ecosystem of protected species, including rays and skates.
In accordance with the Protected Species Regulation (2021/R-25), activities such as feeding, chumming, or provisioning of protected species are prohibited. The EPA emphasized that such actions alter the natural foraging habits of rays and lead to ecological imbalances, including the unintended attraction of sharks, increasing the risk of dangerous incidents.
Recent reports have documented injuries to snorkelers and divers in areas where ray feeding occurs. Such incidents have not only garnered widespread attention on social media but have also raised safety concerns for tourists and negatively impacted the Maldives’ reputation as a sustainable tourism destination. The EPA revealed that it has received numerous complaints from tourists regarding these activities.
Acknowledging the importance of preserving marine biodiversity, the EPA called on all stakeholders, including tourists, resorts, and excursion operators, to adhere strictly to the regulations. The agency stressed the need for human interactions with marine life to prioritize safety, sustainability, and environmental conservation.
The EPA warned that violations of the Protected Species Regulation would result in legal action under Maldivian law. It urged all parties to ensure compliance to safeguard the continued protection of marine life and to support the sustainable development of tourism in the Maldives.
As a nation renowned for its marine ecosystems, the Maldives faces an urgent need to balance tourism activities with environmental preservation. The EPA’s directive serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility in maintaining the delicate harmony of the nation’s marine life.