Thailand bans beginner divers from using cameras to save coral reefs  

The new rule says that only experienced divers can take photos or videos in the water. Divers must have an advanced certificate or proof of at least 40 logged dives to be allowed.

The government says too many people are damaging the coral while trying to take pictures.

As a result, anyone learning how to dive, including their instructors, will not be allowed to take pictures during training unless they are in a special photography course.

The new rules began on 22 April.

They also include limits on group sizes. Only four divers are allowed per guide, and “try dives” must have one professional for every two people.

Snorkelling is only allowed where the water is deep enough and away from the reef. Snorkellers must also wear life jackets unless they are certified divers.

Thailand’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment said the changes are needed because the coral is in serious danger.

“The reefs have been badly damaged by diving tourism,” the official statement was quoted by Dive Magazine.

Other actions like touching coral, feeding fish, and throwing rubbish into the sea are now banned. Anyone breaking the rules could be fined, banned from diving again, or even jailed.