On 02 February, 2023 the coral relocation works have commenced by a local subcontractor in the construction footprint of Hithadhoo zone 2. Experienced local divers with a marine biologist have started relocating corals from the footprint of the reclamation area by means of snorkelling and free diving.
The corals are carefully detached from the substrate and transported in floating baskets to the nearby designated recipient area where they are cemented to the reef or being attached into coral frames.
The following photos illustrate the coral relocation works near Hithadhoo zone 2.
Corals detached from donor site being transported In floating baskets to the recipient area
Relocated coral colonies cemented to a large piece of coral rubble at the recipient area