Dharavandhoo
ދަރަވަންދޫ | |
---|---|
Coordinates: 05°09′30″N 73°07′50″E / 5.15833°N 73.13056°E | |
Country | Maldives |
Administrative atoll | Baa Atoll (South Maalhos Madulu) |
Distance to Malé | 116.53 km (72.41 mi) |
Area | |
• Total | 0.4550 km2 (0.1757 sq mi) |
Dimensions | |
• Length | 1.330 km (0.826 mi) |
• Width | 0.480 km (0.298 mi) |
Population (2014)
[1] | |
• Total | 857 (including foreigners) |
Time zone | UTC+05:00 ( MST) |
Dharavandhoo ( Dhivehi: ދަރަވަންދޫ) is one of the inhabited islands of Baa Atoll.
The island is 116.53 km (72 mi; 63 nmi) north of the country's capital, Malé. [2]
This island is surrounded by clear waters known as Dharavandhoo Thila and Hanifaru Bay; which are famous amongst divers around the world, for it is a sanctuary for a variety of marine life, including manta rays and whale sharks. This globally renowned eco-life zone is now strictly protected by law.
Year | Pop. | ±% |
---|---|---|
2006 | 740 | — |
2014 | 744 | +0.5% |
2006-2014: Census populations Source: [3] |
The island is administered by an Island Council consisting of five councillors elected by the people of the island.
The economy is mainly based on tourism related activities, fishery and agriculture, though most of the educated run their own businesses or are employed with work in Male (the capital city of Maldives).
The island has a powerhouse, run by a utility company.
Dharavandhoo has a Children's Nursery School. The education system is only available up to secondary school; further education is sought from Male' or elsewhere.
The island has its own health centre.
Dharavandhoo Airport was opened on 17 October 2012. Inner harbour was first dredged by MTCC, in the last four months of 1997. There is also a breakwater jetty.
Dharavandhoo has two football grounds.
The island has two mosques.
The citizens of the island are all Dhivehi speaking.
Poets from Dharavandhoo poets play a significant role in Maldives poetry and Dhivehi literature.
Well known Maldivian poets include Shaikh Hussain Salahudhdheen, Yoosuf Alifulhu, Saeed Alifulhu, Ahmed Nashid and Abdullah Muaz.