The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched a comprehensive survey to assess the extent of coral whitening across the Maldives. This initiative comes in response to mounting complaints alleging non-compliance with measures mandated by project owners, citing coral whitening as a significant concern.
In a recent announcement posted on [X], the EPA underscored the urgency of investigating these reports. Coral whitening not only impacts the aesthetic appeal of the country's coastal walls but also poses a threat to reef ecosystems. The agency emphasized that activities during such periods may impede reef regeneration, exacerbating environmental degradation.
The Maldives has witnessed increased land reclamation and beach irrigation activities, which have raised alarms about their adverse effects on coral reefs. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the EPA has implemented measures to address coral bleaching. Major coastal development and land reclamation projects have been temporarily halted until June 10, 2024. However, certain activities have been permitted to resume, subject to strict guidelines.
Among the prohibited actions listed by the EPA are land acquisition, sand mining, coastal development, construction of pipelines on reefs, laying cables, and bund wall installation. These restrictions aim to mitigate the impacts of human activities on coral reefs and prevent further deterioration of marine ecosystems.
The issue of coral whitening has become increasingly prevalent, with parallels drawn to the significant bleaching event of 1998. The EPA's proactive stance reflects a commitment to safeguarding the Maldives' fragile marine environment and underscores the importance of collective action to address environmental challenges.
The ongoing survey conducted by the EPA will provide valuable insights into the extent of coral whitening and inform future conservation efforts aimed at preserving the nation's rich marine biodiversity.