Environment Minister Visits Hanifaru Bay to Review Conservation Efforts

Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy Ali Shareef has visited the protected marine area of Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll to assess its condition and review ongoing conservation efforts.

Hanifaru Bay, located within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll, is internationally recognised for its rich marine biodiversity, particularly its large aggregations of manta rays and whale sharks. The site attracts significant numbers of visitors from around the world. The Maldives’ protected-areas authority identifies Hanifaru as a globally significant site for reef manta rays and a major seasonal aggregation site for whale sharks.

According to the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy, Minister Ali Shareef visited the protected area and met with rangers working at the site. During the meeting, officials from the Biosphere Reserve Office briefed the Minister on the office’s ongoing conservation work and planned activities.

The discussions covered a broad range of issues related to protecting Baa Atoll’s natural environment and ensuring the sustainable use of its natural resources.

The Minister also visited B. Mendhoo, which is among the areas protected under the biosphere reserve. Mendhoo is home to the country’s first pilot Remote Monitoring and Surveillance Station, according to the information provided by the ministry.

The ministry said the station is located in an area characterised by extensive biodiversity and forms part of efforts to strengthen monitoring and protection of the protected areas.

Hanifaru Bay has long been recognised as one of the Maldives’ most ecologically significant marine sites. Official protected-area information describes the area as a major feeding and aggregation site for endangered whale sharks and vulnerable reef manta rays, with seasonal manta aggregations reaching exceptionally high numbers.