Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has given a period of a month to Afcons Infrastructure Limited to pay the USD4.5 million fine for the damage to the Villimale’ reef caused by the bridge platform.
The bridge platform ran aground on Villimale’ on August 16 and caused damage to the reef after its anchor became embedded in the sea floor. The platform was removed from the area on August 27.
EPA said a joint survey in collaboration with the platform owner was conducted to assess the damage caused to the environment. The agency also participated as an observer in a survey conducted by the platform owner from October14-22. EPA said 2,755sqm were damaged due to the incident and 10ft holes were involuntarily dug during the removal efforts of the platform.
The India-based company stated that the self-elevating platform, which was brought in for geotechnical studies of the Thilamale' Bridge, was hit by strong winds and waves, which caused the incident. Afcons added there were 11 employees on the platform at the time and the incident took place while the platform was being anchored.
Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure stated that the contractor assures there would be no delay in the project timeline despite the incident.