The state has yet to receive MVR 930.3 million in environmental fines as of September 16, 2024, according to a compliance audit of the Environment Ministry released by the Audit Office on Tuesday.
The audit, which reviewed the ministry’s operations for 2019, 2020 and 2021, found that fines imposed for environmental damage remain unpaid. The report did not disclose further details about the specific fines or the parties involved.
The Audit Office recommended that the ministry strengthen its processes to recover the outstanding amounts. It advised the ministry to ensure that payments are collected within the stipulated timeframe and, if unpaid, to issue a reminder letter requiring settlement within seven days.
The landing craft that ran aground G.Dh.Vaadhoo's house reef on January 13, 2026.
If the debtor still fails to pay, the audit recommends issuing a formal written notice giving an additional seven days. Under Finance Regulations, unresolved cases must then be referred to the Ministry of Finance for further action.
Environmental fines are often issued in cases where barges run aground on reefs, causing significant damage. Such penalties are typically imposed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).