Allegations have surfaced regarding the unauthorized removal and transport of hundreds of coconut palms from Laamu Isdhoo, reportedly under the guise of the Isdhoo-Kalaidhoo road construction project.
A source from Isdhoo told Adhadhu that while the project claimed a requirement to remove 175 palms, more than 500 palms lining both sides of a two-kilometer stretch of road have been uprooted.
"Since the current council took office, over 500 palms have been removed and are being transported off the island under the pretext of clearing just 175. Even now, more than 200 uprooted palms have been left to die without being utilized," the source said.
The source further noted that two landing crafts and three boats were used to transport the palms off the island, alleging that employees from both the Road Development Corporation (RDC) and MTCC were involved in the operation.
The informant added that mature trees aged 40 to 50 years, including Banyan trees, are being uprooted and burned. It is estimated that approximately 300,000 plants and trees have been destroyed in the process.
"Trees aged 40 to 50 years and Banyan trees on both sides of the road are being pulled out, killed, and burned. By our count, more than 300,000 plants are being destroyed there," he said.
Responding to the allegations, Isdhoo Council President Ahmed Haneef told Adhadhu that while some palms are being removed and transported as part of RDC’s road construction work, the number does not reach 500.
He stated that areas with palms and vegetation must be cleared for the road project, emphasizing that the council’s priority is to ensure the project proceeds without any interruptions.
However, Hassaan Mohamed, Chief Executive of the Environment Regulation Authority (ERA), told Adhadhu that no permit has been issued to any party for the removal of palms or trees in Isdhoo.
He noted that the ERA is currently investigating the matter following a complaint filed by a private individual regarding the ongoing removal of vegetation.
Under current regulations, council permission is required to cut down fewer than 50 trees for any reason, while projects involving more than 50 trees require approval from the ERA. Despite these rules, the frequent disregard for environmental regulations across various islands continues to draw criticism.
