Tug and Barge Operator Fine MVR 29 Million by EPA

The operator of a tug and barge that sank in northern Hulhumale in February has been fined MVR 29 million. The tug, ‘Anadi,’ and the barge ‘AM Manumith’ ran aground on February 21, with both vessels subsequently recovered from the shoreline on April 23.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has imposed a fine on the Middle East Marine, LLC, responsible for the vessels. In a statement, the EPA indicated that a joint survey with surveyors appointed by the vessel owners was conducted to assess the environmental damage resulting from the incident. The survey revealed that 1,159 acres of the surrounding area suffered significant damage.

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The operator has been fined MVR 29,201,946 under the Environmental Protection and Conservation Act. The EPA has mandated that the operator pay the fine within 30 days.