Dismantling of 171 illegal structures on Bénitiers Island by February 25

The move is aimed at curbing illegal activity on the island. The #SavetheBlu movement, which campaigns for the preservation of the island, welcomes the initiative and proposes a sustainable development plan.

In an open letter, it proposes dividing the island into three parts: one third for tourism, another dedicated to biodiversity and the last reserved for scientific conservation.

#SavetheBlu also calls on the government to engage with local businesses to support both the environment and the livelihoods of 250 people who work on the island.

Ile aux Bénitiers: Eviction of 171 illegal structures ordered

The Ministry of Housing and Lands has taken the decision to immediately evict the illegal occupants of Île aux Bénitiers.

Under the State Lands Act , 171 structures, including tents and wooden frames, must be dismantled within seven days.

The move follows an inter-ministerial committee that highlighted serious problems associated with the illegal occupation of the island, such as rat infestation, an increase in stray dogs, poor waste management and the presence of illicit activities.

Housing and Lands Minister Shakeel Mohamed told Top FM that a health emergency on the island required the action. However, he clarified that the island will remain accessible to Mauritians and tourists.

Regarding the operators present, the minister assures that their rights will be respected and that a structured and sustainable development plan will be put in place very soon.

Dismantling of 171 illegal structures on Île aux Bénitiers: the Association of Professional and Recreational Fishermen deplores the lack of consultations

Karl Lamarque claims to have written a letter to Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam to denounce this hasty decision to demolish these structures in such a short time frame.

There should have been consultations with the various stakeholders, including local residents and boaters, claims Karl Lamarque. The president of the Association of Professional and Recreational Fishermen adds that more than 5,000 jobs are affected by the activities on Île aux Bénitiers.

Karl Lamarque claims to have written a letter to Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam to denounce this hasty decision to demolish these structures in such a short time frame.