ERA fines MTCC MVR 550,000 for illegal logging in Baarah protected area

The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has been fined MVR 550,000 for illegally cutting down trees in a protected area of HA. Baarah.

The Environmental Regulatory Authority (ERA) said it had been investigating MTCC’s clearing and widening of roads in the island’s wetlands without prior authorisation. Information gathered during the inquiry, including an on‑site inspection, confirmed that trees had been felled illegally outside the designated protected zone.

ERA has ordered MTCC to pay the fine through Bandeyri Pay within 30 days from Tuesday.

Press release: Fine was imposed on MTCC for the ring road extension project in HA. Baarah, due to violations of Regulation No. 2018/R-78 and Regulation No. 2022/R-92. In addition, an advisory letter was sent to the Baarah Council.https://t.co/wYO1TWREFl

— Environmental Regulatory Authority (ERA) (@ERA_Maldives) May 20, 2026

According to the authority, the penalties include MVR 500,000 under the Natural Protected Areas Regulation (2018/R‑78) and MVR 50,000 under the Rural Green and Forestry Protection and Maintenance Regulation (2022/R‑92).

ERA has also instructed MTCC to stop cutting any trees from Baarah’s woodlands or protected areas for road construction.

The authority noted that the Baarah Council failed to report the illegal clearing. An advisory letter has been issued to the council, warning it not to repeat such negligence.