The Maldives Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) has been awarded a contract to develop nature parks in the protected areas of Kelaakunu, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, and Farukolhu, Shaviyani Atoll.
State Minister Mohamed Faiz signed the agreements on behalf of the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, while Managing Director of MTDC, Ahmed Niyaz signed on behalf of corporation.
The Ministry of Tourism and Environment said Keylakunu and Farukolhu are two areas protected under the Environmental Protection and Conservation Act. Therefore, the nature parks in these two areas will be developed in accordance in full compliance under the Environmental Protection and Conservation Act, the Ministry said.
The Ministry noted that the construction of the nature parks in the two islands will be implememted in phases. The first phase involves the initial concept design, a 3D rendering of the park, an ecological baseline assessment as well as the formulation of a feasibility and management plan.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, State Minister Faiz said the project is in line with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge to expand tourism in the northern atolls of the Maldives and establish nature parks in every atoll.
"Today, we are working on these two pledges. While Kelaakunu and Farukolhu are protected areas, the project will promote eco-tourism without losing sight of the purpose. This work will benefit the communities of the area,” Faiz said.
MTDC’s Managing Director Ahmed Niyaz said the practical work of the project will kick off shortly after the project’s concept is formulated.
"Our role will be to develop a concept for the parks such that no damage is caused to these protected islands. The project will benefit the tourism sector, and work is scheduled to begin next week,” Niyaz said.
The government continues to prioritise the development of nature parks in different parts of the country. Nature parks have already been developed in Addu City and Fuvahmulah City. These nature parks contribute to further expanding the tourism industry and provide added benefits to the economy of the Maldives.