Tuesday 16 Jun 2026
Kunavaashi Resort in Vaavu atoll, oeprated by La Vie Hotels & Resorts, a company based in Australia. (Photo/Visit Maldives)
CJL Investment Pvt Ltd, the developer of NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi in Vaavu Atoll, has been fined MVR 20,000 for constructing a seaplane platform without completing the mandatory Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process.
The Environmental Regulatory Authority (ERA) announced the penalty in a notice published in the Government Gazette on Monday. According to the authority, the company proceeded with the installation of a seaplane platform at V. Kunaavashi without obtaining EIA approval, a requirement under the Environmental Impact Assessment Reporting Regulation.
ERA said the violation was investigated and the company was fined MVR 20,000 for a first‑time offence under the regulation. The agency instructed CJL Investment to settle the fine through Bandeyri Pay within 30 days, and to resume work only after completing all procedures stipulated in the EIA framework.
CJL Investment Pvt Ltd is a joint‑venture involving Guangdong Beta Oceans Ltd and Maldivian partners. The company developed the luxury private‑island resort now operating as NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi, managed by Australian hospitality group La Vie Hotels & Resorts.
Press release: Fine Imposed on CJL Investment Private Limited for Installing Seaplane Platforms in V. Kunaavashi in Violation of the EIA Regulation.https://t.co/8ife1Bmk8s
— Environmental Regulatory Authority (ERA) (@ERA_Maldives) June 15, 2026
Under Maldivian law, any coastal or marine modification, including the construction of seaplane platforms, water aerodromes or over‑water structures, requires a full EIA and explicit clearance from ERA.
Bypassing this process is considered a serious breach due to the potential impact on coral reefs, lagoon ecosystems and shoreline stability.
The fine also comes at a time when the Maldives has tightened regulatory oversight of seaplane infrastructure, introducing new licensing frameworks governing site selection, construction standards and operational safety for water runways.
