In an ambitious move to regulate the remaining ‘untouched’ coastal areas including reefs and declare them as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), MEPA has spearheaded an Inter-Agency Coordinated Mechanism to protect marine ecosystems. This initiative will zone and regulate marine attractions including coral reefs and fishing. “The reef area has already been mapped out and zoned. “Ideally the exercise should be translated to inland potential tourist attractions as well,” says Dr. Kumara who urges the responsible authorities to take a cue from MEPA’s brainchild. * Photo Credit (Kayankerni reef): Dr. Terney Pradeep Kumara

Source: Sunday Times March 02, 2019 19:20 UTC