Ecocare Maldives has called on the government to refrain from proceeding with any development activity in Haa Dhaal Keylakunu island.
In a post on X, the environmental NGO said the island is a significant natural heritage site and must be declared a biosphere reserve.
"We reiterate our call in 2017, “to keep the island as it is”. It is important to recognize Keylakunu island as a Wild Mangrove Reserve in the Maldives not only for our generation but also future generations," Ecocare posted.
The NGO added that "we must limit human interaction to allow nature to flourish in the island."
Principal Under-Secretary to the President Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim on Sunday announced plans to develop eco-tourism in the island.
He said the government is considering building floating villas in the lagoon to reduce damage to the natural environment of the island.
“The Visitor Economic Council has decided to study the possibility of building floating rooms for visitors without any damage to the lagoon and reef," he said.
The government of President Abdulla Yameen, under the current ruling coalition, had also planned tourism on the island prompting Ecocare to express concern in 2017.
Developing Keylakunu for eco-tourism is a pledge made by the President. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
