The Maafushi Council has decided to clamp down on all illegal businesses currently operating on the island.
The Vice President of the Maafushi Council, Majdha Ibrahim told Avas that much of the land in Maafushi is being used illegally by businesses and that the decision to put an end to such businesses came after consultation with the government.
"Most land is being used illegally. So we deliberated with the Atoll Council and Ministry before reaching this decision," she said.
Some businessmen have also complained of the illegal use of land by other businesses in Maafushi, such as restaurants using the beach area illegally which causes difficulties for the legal businesses operating in the area.
The Councillor further said that all such practises would be shut down in principle by the first of next month.
"Some businesses are being carried out in ways which there is no income for the government. That's what has lead us to this decision," She said.
An Atoll Councillor from Male' also told 'Avas' that restaurants were using land illegally in Maafushi.
"Atoll Councilors have visited these businesses door to door, and all illegal practises would be shut down on the first of next month," the councillor said.
There are currently 48 guesthouses operating in Maafushi, and the island earns an estimated income of USD10 million per month.
