Activist Climbs Banyan Tree to Block Chopping in Vilimalé

An environmental activist climbed a mature banyan tree in Vilimalé in a direct attempt to stop municipal workers from chopping it down.

The activist, identified as Ahmed Niyaz, ascended the large tree located near the Vilimalé water sports area after felling operations had already commenced. Photos from the scene showed Niyaz lying across one of the limbs after several large branches had already been severed.

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Police officers intervened shortly after, using a telehandler to reach Niyaz, persuade him to descend, and escort him from the site. Police confirmed that Niyaz was not placed under arrest.

Defending the operation, police stated that the trimming of the banyan branches was being conducted in accordance with established regulations, adding that law enforcement assists in situations where trees cause public disruption or safety hazards.

The Malé City Council has not yet issued a statement clarifying the specific reason for cutting down the tree.

The incident follows an announcement by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu in October last year outlining plans to cut down several banyan trees across Vilimalé and the Machangoalhi ward of Malé, a decision that has drawn ongoing concern from local conservationists.

The decision to cut down the trees gained traction after President Muizzu held an impromptu show-of-hands vote during a town hall with Vilimalé residents, declaring the measure passed after a majority supported removal. 

The decision has nonetheless sparked strong pushback from conservationists, who argue that felling mature landmark trees erodes Vilimalé’s distinctive environmental identity.

In addition to his environmental advocacy, Niyaz is a co-founder of the Maldives Space Research Organisation (MSRO) and leads “Binheyo,” an initiative promoting local agriculture and food security.