Soneva Fushi Fined Over MVR 448K for Illegal Entry and Activities in Protected Nelivaru Area
The EPA confirmed that Soneva Fushi must pay the fine within 30 days from 23 April 2025. | Photo credit: Soneva Fushi
Soneva Fushi Resort has been fined MVR 448,375 for illegally entering the protected B. Nelivaru area and carrying out prohibited activities with tourists.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stated that on 18 December 2024, employees of Soneva Fushi, accompanied by tourists, entered the Nelivaru area without obtaining permission from the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve Office. According to the EPA, a total of ten individuals, including tourists, entered the protected area after 6:00 p.m. and engaged in activities deemed illegal under environmental regulations.
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The illegal acts listed by the EPA include lighting up the area at night, making noise, setting fire, and disturbing the natural life and customs of the area. It was also reported that Biosphere Reserve Office officials, along with police officers, visited the area on the same night and instructed the group to leave. Despite the directive, the group completed their planned activities before departing the site.
The EPA confirmed that Soneva Fushi must pay the fine within 30 days from 23 April 2025.
