New rules have been enacted to require divers and swimmers to keep a distance of six feet from sea turtles.
Amendments to the regulations on protected species gazetted by the Environment Ministry on Sunday state that a distance of six feet must be maintained, and explains what to do if turtles approach a swimmer or diver.
"If they come near the swimmer or diver, the person must stay still and wait until the turtle or tortoise goes where they want," reads the amendment brought to the regulations.
The revised rules also provide other details on how to act in swimming or diving with turtles.
Prohibitions while swimming or diving with turtles:
- Swimming or diving above a turtle
- Swimming or diving to chase after a turtle
- Committing any act that disrupts the natural behavior of turtles
- Feeding turtles in their natural habitat.
