Tourism ministry on Wednesday re-announced the islands for leasing for tourism development after removing Meemu Atoll Boahura from the 15 islands initially announced by the Ministry.
On January 23, the tourism ministry opened bids for the development of resorts in 15 islands and lagoons, including Boahura, one of the most popular destinations in the Maldives.
The inclusion of Boahura in the list has caused an uproar by environmental advocacy organisations as well as surfers in the area. A campaign on social media called ‘Save Boahura’ was also launched.
Amid concerns raised by many, the tourism ministry on Wednesday revised and re-announced the documentation of the bid. The major changes brought about was the removal of Boahura. Moreover, an information clarification meeting scheduled for February 6 has also been postponed to February 7.
According to the tourism ministry’s announcement, the acquisition cost of the islands or the starting price offered by the island’s recipients ranges between USD 200,000 and USD 2.3 million.
