By More than 3,000 individuals have signed an online petition calling for the immediate halt of the land reclamation initiative in Dhonfanu Bay, amid growing concerns about the potential impact on Hanifaru Bay – one of the Maldives’ most treasured marine sanctuaries.
Hanifaru Bay, located in Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is globally renowned as a hotspot for manta rays and whale sharks. Each year, hundreds of visitors flock to the site to witness one of the largest gatherings of reef manta rays in the world, a spectacle that has placed the Maldives at the forefront of sustainable marine tourism. The bay’s ecological importance and its ability to draw high-value tourists have made it a cornerstone of the country’s eco-tourism brand.
From an economic perspective, Hanifaru Bay brings significant value to the Maldives by attracting environmentally conscious travelers seeking unique natural experiences. Resorts and guesthouses in Baa Atoll benefit directly from the tourism generated by the site, while the wider economy profits from related services such as diving, snorkeling excursions, and marine conservation programs. The protection of such sites also enhances the Maldives’ reputation as a leader in marine conservation, strengthening the nation’s position in the competitive global tourism market.
Environmentalists and marine experts warn that land reclamation in Dhonfanu Bay – located close to Hanifaru – could disrupt delicate ecosystems and jeopardize the natural phenomena that make the site unique. Sedimentation, habitat destruction, and changes in water currents are among the risks highlighted, which could have long-term consequences for marine life and, in turn, the tourism industry.
The government first assigned the reclamation of 13 hectares of land in Dhonfanu to MTCC in 2011. However, the project gained renewed attention after the contract was signed on August 13 during President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s visit to the island.
With mounting public pressure and petitions gaining momentum, the debate underscores a critical question for the Maldives: how to balance development needs with the protection of its most valuable natural assets. For a nation that depends heavily on tourism, safeguarding Hanifaru Bay is not just an environmental duty but an economic necessity.