Maldives issues travel warning after drowning of 5 tourists

Thursday, January 24, 2019

Maldives is known for its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, coral reefs, and resorts, but it is not without its unpleasant aspect. It attracts honeymooners and is a hot spot for Instagram photos. Maldives officials issued a nationwide safety warning for resort operators after tourists died of drowning. About five tourists drowned within a week in Maldives archipelago.

Two Filipino newlyweds perished after being swept away by an undertow, while an 84-year-old Czech tourist and 66-year-old South Korean traveler both died within two days of each other when snorkeling near the capital. Later, a Russian woman drowned on a diving trip.

According to the AFP, strong currents are responsible for the string of tourist deaths. Maldives attracts about 1.4 million visitors yearly and relies on tourism to fuel their economy. Tourists drowning blemishes Maldives tourism image. Deaths of the tourists are being investigated.

The tourism ministry is currently identifying safe zones for water activities. Tourist police officers are stationed on the islands to monitor people in the water.

Maldives Tourism Minister Ali Waheed said:  “We have decided to inspect all tourist facilities in the Maldives within the next six to eight months.”

Regular monitoring will ensure that the regulations are followed.

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