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Statement Regarding Dhonfanu Reclamation Project Halt
Press Release Summary
Resilience Maldives Responds to Government Decision on Dhonfanu Reclamation Project
Resilience Maldives has welcomed the government’s decision to halt the Dhonfanu reclamation project. However, the organisation emphasises that this pause is only temporary. It does not adequately address the broader environmental threats facing the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The group urges all stakeholders to consider sustainable practices that protect the delicate marine ecosystems and biodiversity in the region. While the suspension of the project is a positive step, further action is required to ensure long-term environmental preservation and community resilience. Resilience Maldives remains committed to advocating for effective solutions that prioritise ecological integrity and sustainable development in the area.
Resilience in the headlines
Explore independent media coverage of Resilience Maldives. This section compiles news articles, interviews, features, and broadcast mentions from external media outlets, providing third-party validation of our work and impact. Each entry includes the media outlet name, headline, publication date, a short excerpt, and an external link to the full article. See how our legacy is being shaped and recognised.
Petition Launched to Stop Dredging Near Hanifaru Bay
Media outlet: News Maldives Matters
Publication date: 9 September 2025
Excerpt: An online petition launched by Resilience Maldives is gathering nationwide support to halt a planned dredging project near Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its manta ray populations and marine biodiversity. Environmental advocates warn the project could disrupt fragile ecosystems, threaten tourism and fisheries, and cause long-term ecological damage unless a full Environmental Impact Assessment is conducted.
"That's a complete lie": scrapping of reclamation near marine sanctuary sparks protests in Dhonfanu
Council denies residents asked president to cancel project.
Media Outlet: Maldives Independent
Publication Date: 9 September 2025
Excerpt: The government’s decision to cancel a planned land reclamation project near Hanifaru Bay sparked protests in Dhonfanu, with local officials disputing claims that residents requested the cancellation. The project had drawn strong opposition from conservationists due to potential risks to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and its globally significant marine ecosystem.
Dhonfanu People to Protest at Sea Over Halted Reclamation Project
Media Outlet: Adhadhu News
Publication Date: 11 September 2025
Excerpt: Residents of Baa Dhonfanu announced plans to stage protests at sea following the decision to halt the island’s land reclamation project. The development comes amid ongoing public debate over environmental risks to the nearby Hanifaru Bay UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the balance between ecological protection and local development priorities.
President Decides Not to Proceed with Dhonfanu Land Reclamation
Media Outlet: One Online
Publication Date: 9 September 2025
Excerpt: Authorities decided not to proceed with the proposed land reclamation of Dhonfanu following growing environmental concerns and public advocacy efforts. The project had raised alarm over potential impacts on the Hanifaru Bay ecosystem, including risks to marine biodiversity and ecological balance within the protected biosphere area.
Hanifaru Bay: Petition gains momentum with over 4,000 signatures
Media Outlet: The Press (Maldives )
Publication Date: 6 September 2025
Excerpt: More than 4,000 individuals signed a petition urging the government to halt a land reclamation project in Baa Dhonfanu that could threaten the ecosystem of Hanifaru Bay. The initiative highlights concerns over impacts on marine biodiversity, including manta rays and coral reef systems, and calls for development approaches that balance economic growth with environmental protection.
Petition Against Dhonfanu Reclamation to Protect Hanifaru Bay
Media Outlet: Adhadhu News
Publication Date: 6 September 2025
Excerpt: An online petition was launched to halt the proposed land reclamation of Baa Dhonfanu due to concerns over potential ecological damage to the protected Hanifaru Bay area. The initiative highlights risks to marine biodiversity and reflects growing public support for safeguarding one of the Maldives’ most significant marine ecosystems.
Petition Launched to Stop Land Dredging Near Hanifaru Bay
Media Outlet: DredgeWire
Publication Date: 6 September 2025
Excerpt: An environmental petition gained momentum urging authorities to halt land dredging near Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of the Maldives’ most ecologically significant marine habitats. The campaign raises concerns that dredging could disrupt water flow, damage coral reefs, and threaten marine biodiversity, with potential long-term impacts on local livelihoods and tourism dependent on the ecosystem.
Petition launched to halt Dhonfanu dredging, citing threat to Hanifaru Bay
Media outlet: Sun Online (Sun MV)
Publication Date: 4 September 2025
Excerpt: A petition launched by Resilience Maldives calls for the suspension of dredging activities near Hanifaru Bay, warning that the project could threaten the fragile marine ecosystem of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The campaign highlights environmental risks associated with reclamation and calls for stronger safeguards to protect biodiversity and coastal livelihoods.
Petition Launched To Halt Dhonfanu Dredging Over Threats To Hanifaru Bay
Media outlet: Plus MV
Publication Date: 6 September 2025
Excerpt: A petition calling for the immediate halt of dredging operations in Dhonfanu was launched amid concerns over potential damage to Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and critical marine habitat. Environmental advocates warn that sedimentation and disruption of marine ecosystems could threaten biodiversity, local livelihoods, and the long-term sustainability of coastal communities.
Government Cancels Dhonfanu Reclamation Project to Protect Hanifaru Bay
Media outlet: Maldives Matters
Publication date: 9 September 2025
Excerpt: The Maldivian government announced it would halt plans to reclaim land at Baa Dhonfanu following public opposition and environmental concerns about potential damage to Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The decision reflects growing attention to balancing development needs with the protection of fragile marine ecosystems and community livelihoods.