Strive to protect marine ecosystem from ill-fated vessel
May 27, 2021- President instructs to minimize damage to marine ecosystem
- MEPA warns not to touch those poisonous material
Security Forces, Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) and other responsible government agencies are working to mitigate the damage posed to the marine environment and coastline by the ill-fated vessel, MV X-Press Pearl, following the instructions of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said.
Accordingly, the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) and other state agencies have commenced the clearing of debris washed away to the bordering shoreline.
Under the instructions of the President, MEPA has already tested the water samples around the coastline and contacted the responsible parties including the shipping company, insurance company and other related agencies, the news said.
The President has instructed the officials to pay special attention to minimize the spread of oil around the vessel in the event of an oil spill while remaining vigilant about the prevailing adverse weather condition.
The President has commended the Navy, Air Force and other parties involved for their efforts and further directed them to preserve the coastline.
MEPA Chairperson Darshini Lahandapura warned the public living in the nearest coastal areas not to touch those poisonous material washed to the shore from the ill-fated vessel.