EPA Imposes Over 20 Million Fine for Dhiyaneru Reef Damage

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has levied a fine of over MVR 20 million against the tugboat owner, AM Adway, for the damages caused to the Dhiyaneru reef in K. Atoll.

The incident occurred on September 23, 2023, when the tugboat AM Adway and its accompanying barge, Aaron, ran aground on the Dhiyaneru reef.

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Following the incident, the EPA, in conjunction with surveyors appointed by the vessels’ owner, Middle East Marine LLC based in Dubai, conducted a survey to assess the extent of the damage.

In its findings published in the Government Gazette today, the EPA stated that while the barge Aaron did not cause any damage, the tugboat AM Adway damaged an 804-square-meter area of the reef.

Consequently, Middle East Marine has been fined MVR 20,246,600 for the environmental damage, as stipulated under the Environmental Protection Act. The company has been directed to settle the fine within 30 days.

It is worth noting that the Dhiyaneru lagoon, situated close to Male’, was previously earmarked for a yacht marina project, although this initiative never came to fruition.