Environment Protection Agency (EPA), has begun assessing the damages caused to Vilimale' reef by the self-elevation platform (SEP) which ran aground at the reef last month.

EPA said on Tuesday they have begun surveying the reef for damages, together with Afcons. EPA's Director, Ibrahim Naeem, is also partaking in the survey, the Agency said.

"We have begun the joint survey to assess the damages to the reef", EPA said.

The SEP was being used for Thilamale' Bridge construction when it ran aground on 16 August due to extreme weather conditions. Three people were injured in the incident.

The platform was found by Marine Police. The platform was removed on 27 August - 12 days since it ran aground.

Vilimale' residents and multiple environmental organisations and groups expressed concern over the damages to the reef during this period.