Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Technology Aminath Shauna has revealed plans for the restoration of Rasfari Reef through the establishment of a coral nursery. She made the remarks at a ceremony marking the commencement of the restoration project attended by the environment ministry, EPA, the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), Dhiraagu and other environmental organisations.
The Panamanian cargo ship, MV Navios Amaryllis, ran aground in Rasfari Reef on August 19, 2021. The ship was travelling from Tuticorin, India, to a port in South Africa. Following an investigation into the incident, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other local authorities revealed the ship ran aground after its engine was shut off due to overheating.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Shauna noted that the grounding resulted in damage to an area measuring 8.86sqft. The minister highlighted that the ship has already compensated with a payment of USD10 million for the incurred damages. She said that USD3.5 million out of the sum has been allocated to an EPA trust fund specifically designated for the restoration of the reef. She also said that the funds will be used to fortify the reef, with ongoing monitoring to ensure the effectiveness of the restoration efforts.
Rasfari is a popular diving spot for tourists due to its natural beauty and was declared a protected area in 1995.