Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has stated a grounded cargo ship has caused serious damage to the reef of Rasfari, Kaafu Atoll.
Speaking to PSM News, Director General Ibrahim Naeem said a team is currently assessing the damage done to the reef after the ship ran aground on August 19, and that the initial assessment has determined that the incident has caused serious harm to the environment. Naeem highlighted the incident occurred inside a protected area and estimates that a huge fine would be levied after the assessment is completed. He said part of the ship is grounded in an area with 4-5 metres of water and that work to refloat the ship would cause further damage to the fragile reef.
Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) is currently working to refloat the ship with assistance from the Government of the Maldives and the ship's owner. MNDF stated the ship is owned by a company in Greece and is affiliated with a local agent. MNDF stated a tug boat will be arriving from Sri Lanka on August 23 to refloat the ship.
The cargo ship carrying 19 crewmen ran aground while travelling near Rasfari after experiencing engine failure. Rasfari is a popular diving spot for tourists due to its natural beauty.