EPA Imposes MVR 100 Million Fine on Barge Owner for Dhidhdhoo Reef Damage
HRS Infratech, the barge owner responsible for the grounding on HA. Dhidhdhoo Island’s reef, is fined MVR 100 million by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which identified two involved vessels: “TB Mutha Princess” tug boat and “Muthaa Pride” barge.
Press Release regarding the fine imposed on HRS Infratech Pte Ltd for the environmental damages caused by the grounding of Tug MUTHA PRINCESS and Barge MUTHA PRIDE on HA. Dhidhdhoo Reef. pic.twitter.com/wshdyQ28Yy
— EPA Maldives (@EPAMaldives) September 19, 2023advertisement
The boat, laden with rocks, was successfully salvaged from the reef just three days after the unfortunate event occurred on May 2.
EPA officials assessed the environmental damage by visiting the site on May 12 and conducting a thorough investigation alongside the owner’s surveyor. Their findings revealed that a substantial 4,038 acres of the reef had suffered severe damage during the incident.
Based on their assessment, the EPA determined that the total amount of fines and compensation for the environmental harm amounted to MVR 101,743,400. However, in accordance with legal guidelines, the EPA opted to impose the maximum allowable fine of MVR 100 million.
The company has been given a strict deadline of 30 days to settle this substantial fine.
