EPA Slaps MVR 200,000 Fine on Construction Ministry for Road Project Violations

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of the Maldives fined the Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure MVR 200,000 for violations noted during the Lhaviyani Atoll Hinnavaru road project.

The agency highlighted that certain aspects of the project were undertaken without adherence to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report.

According to EPA, the ministry authorised the implementation of project elements that were restricted by the agency in the EIA concept for the road development and sewerage installation project.

Citing Article 20(a) of the EIA Regulation, EPA asserts that the ministry, acting as the proprietor or ‘contractee’ of the project, bears responsibility for the offence and is subject to a fine of MVR 200,000.

The Ministry is required to settle the fine within 30 days from the date of the announcement, as specified by EPA.