South Ari Marine Protected Area

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.