The Environment Ministry has decided to uphold Environment Protection Agency (EPA)'s decision to fine Afcons MVR 69 million after their self-elevating platform (SEP) ran aground Vilimale' reef.

The platform, which was used for the construction of the Thillamale' Bridge, ran aground at 0245hrs on August 16 last year.

Following the incident, on 13 November 2022, EPA imposed a fine of MVR 69 million on Afcons for damages to the reef. However, instead of paying the fine, Afcons appealed EPA's decision at Environment Ministry.

After investigating the issue, the Environment Ministry concluded on Tuesday that there was no need to change the EPA's penalty.

The Environment Ministry further said that since it is important for the EPA to spend the fine proceeds to repair environmental damage, it has decided to deposit MVR 15 million in the EPA's Environment Restoration Fund out of the total penalty in the case.

According to the Ministry, the money will be used to repair the damage caused to Villimale' forest and to enhance EPA's capabilities.