A Singapore-based maritime company has been fined over MVR 12 million after its tug boat ran aground on the reef of Sh. Milandhoo last October, causing extensive environmental damage.

In a statement issued yesterday, the Environmental Regulatory Authority (ERA) said the tug boat SHWE LIN YONE (IMO: 9750488), registered in the Republic of Niue and operating in the Maldives under Atoll Navigations Services Pvt Ltd, struck the reef on October 3, 2024.

The vessel remained grounded until it was salvaged on October 19, 2024.

According to ERA, the ship’s owners later deployed surveyors who worked with ERA officials to assess the extent of the damage during inspections held on November 7 and 8, 2024.

The assessment found that approximately 477 square meters of the reef had been damaged, including areas that were completely destroyed.

Based on these findings, ERA imposed a fine of MVR 12,006,200 under the Maldives’ Environment Law and associated regulations governing environmental penalties and compensation.

The authority said Singapore-based Gloha Maritime Company, the owner of the tug boat, has been ordered to settle the payment within 30 days.

The company was formally notified of the fine last Wednesday.