An online petition has been created to halt the planned reclamation of Baa Dhonfanu island, which could cause serious damage to the biodiversity of the protected Hanifaru Bay area.

Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has been contracted to reclaim 13 hectares of land in Dhonfanu - an island with just 398 people. The project agreement was signed on August 13 during President Mohamed Muizzu's visit to the island.

More than 3,000 people have signed the petition created two days ago by the Resilience Maldives NGO. Social media users have also been sharing the petition on their platforms.

"The proposed reclamation plan not only risks the survival of individual species but endangers the very fabric of communities that rely on and respect the ocean. The Maldives' vibrant eco-tourism sector, which draws visitors from around the world to witness its coastal wonders, and the fishing communities whose traditions are woven into the maritime tapestry, face an uncertain future," the petition stated.

Hanifaru Bay covers an area of ​​529 hectares. The reefs in the area are used as cleaning stations by the mantas. There is a USD 20 fee to snorkel in the area and scuba diving is banned.

Earlier this year, the Environment Ministry announced a plan to protect the area for the next five years.

According to the plan, the biggest threat to the Hanifaru Bay Area is development projects around the area, especially land reclamation projects.