Yacht Owner Fined MVR 4.8 Million for Reef Damage in Alif Dhaalu Atoll

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has fined the owner of a yacht MVR 4.8 million as compensation for environmental damage caused when the vessel ran aground on a reef in Alif Dhaalu Atoll.

According to the EPA, the incident involving the yacht MY Big Fish occurred on 28 April. The vessel was refloated the following day, and a joint survey to assess the extent of the damage was carried out on 4 June. The assessment included surveyors appointed by the yacht’s owner.

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The EPA stated that the inspection revealed damage to approximately 187 square metres of the reef. The fine was officially issued on Monday, and the agency has instructed the yacht owner to settle the payment within one month.

Although fines are regularly imposed for environmental damage caused by vessels running aground, the EPA noted that the state has received only a limited portion of the penalties levied in such cases.