South Ari Atoll - RajjeViyu

PSM News | 12 hours, 12 minutes ago | positive

Police join rangers to strengthen SAMPA protection

The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy announced that police will patrol the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) alongside rangers to strengthen enforcement. SAMPA is the largest marine protected area in the Maldives and a key site for year-round whale shark sightings. A Tech-for-Nature project has been launched to use modern technology and real-time communication to improve management, protect whale sharks, and balance conservation with tourism. Rangers will receive digital monitoring equipment. The project aims to achieve IUCN Green List certification. All users must comply with management rules, including vessel registration, using guides, and sharing live location.

The Edition | 21 hours, 12 minutes ago | neutral

Police begin work in monitoring AA. Atoll protected area

Police have begun working with Environmental Regulatory Authority (ERA) rangers to monitor and patrol the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) in AA. Atoll, known for whale sharks and rays. The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Technology announced the collaboration, emphasizing enforcement of the management plan, which requires registered vessels, guides, notifying rangers, using flags, and installing propeller guards by June 30. SAMPA was designated a protected area in 2009, covering reefs from ADh. Rangali to AA. Dhigurah. A fatal speedboat accident last year prompted mandatory propeller guards.

Maldives News Network | 2 months, 1 week ago | urgent

German Tourist Killed in Boat Strike at South Ari Atoll, Maldives

On April 1, 2026, a German tourist was killed after being struck by a boat at Manta Point in South Ari Atoll, within the Southern Marine Protection Area (SAMPA). The incident was reported to Maldives Police Service at 9:59 a.m. The victim's identity has not been released. SAMPA is a protected marine zone that extends one kilometer from the outer bank of the reef. Boat strikes on swimmers and divers are common in the area. In response to the recurring danger, a management plan was introduced in February 2025 requiring a spotter or lookout to be stationed at the rear of all vessels operating in the zone to prevent such incidents.