Malé, Maldives – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that the fine for the destruction of protected Rasfari reef is estimated at MVR 900 million.
Following an environmental assessment survey, EPA states that one hectare of the reef was significantly damaged due to the grounding of Navio Amaryllis cargo bulker leading to the destruction of marine life and the structure of the reef.
While EPA has previously offered the option for the bulker to depart the Maldives upon paying a fine of MVR 109 million, the ship owners Navios Maritime Partners of Greece insist on approval to depart from Maldives.
The Deputy Transport Minister, Hamad Abdul Ghanee has previously stated that the grounding occurred due to the negligence of the ship’s captain.
On August 19, cargo ship Navio Amaryllis en route to South Africa from Tuticorin, India, via innocent passage, crashed into the reef of K. Rasfari. The ship, 189.99 meters (623.23 feet) long with a carrying capacity of 58,735 tons, crashed into the reef due to engine failure according to MNDF.
The Rastafari reef is a major tourist attraction in the Maldives known for its natural beauty, is within an environmentally protected region.
