The Ministry of Fisheries, Marine Resources, and Agriculture has taken significant steps to enhance fisheries in the Maldives by placing Fish Aggregating Devices (FAD) in strategic locations in various atolls.
In Baa Atoll, FADs were anchored nine miles outside of Kaashidhoo, while in Lhaviyani Atoll, they were placed 10 miles northeast of Feydhoo and 30 miles outside of Raiyruh huraa. In addition to these locations, FADs were also set up in Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Fuvahmulah City, and Addu City as part of the Sports and Trolling Fishing Programme earlier in March.
The ministry aims to expand the FAD network and has already placed a total of 100 devices across the country. The primary purpose of FADs is to attract fish, which helps reduce the cost of fisheries operations in the Maldives. By strategically placing FADs, the ministry endeavors to optimize fishing opportunities and support the sustainable development of the fishing industry.
As part of their ongoing efforts, the Ministry plans to replace existing FADs in Haa Alifu Atoll and Haa Dhaalu Atoll soon, further enhancing fishing opportunities and supporting the livelihoods of fishing communities in those areas.