Afcons Infrastructure Limited has appealed the USD4.5 million fine issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the damage to the Villimale’ reef caused by the bridge platform. Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Technology stated that it is moving forward with the appeal process.
The bridge platform ran aground near Villimale’ on August 16 and caused damage to the reef after its anchor became embedded in the sea floor. The platform was removed from the area on August 27.
EPA stated a joint survey in collaboration with the platform owner was conducted to assess the damage caused to the environment. It stated that 2,755sqm were damaged due to the incident and 10ft holes were dug during the removal efforts of the platform.
Afcons stated that the self-elevating platform, which was brought in for geotechnical studies of the Thilamale' Bridge, was hit by strong winds and waves, which caused the incident. It added there were 11 employees on the platform at the time and the incident took place while the platform was being anchored.