Process of securing X-Press Pearl fire damage expedited

The Minister of Justice has instructed officials to expedite measures to take legal action and secure damages for the devastation caused by the MV -X Press Pearl fire. More than a year has passed since the vessel carrying a hazardous chemical cargo caught fire on 20 May 2021 while at anchorage 9.5 nm off the Colombo Port. The fire and ensuing chemical leak caused serious damage to Sri Lanka’s marine environment. It has been called the ‘single worst incident of plastic marine pollution in the world.’

Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe gave these instructions to the officials at a meeting held in the Ministry of Justice this week to discuss the legal measures taken to date, how compensation has been provided and how the relevant institutions will proceed in this regard. The special discussion was also attended by Attorney General Sanjay Rajarathnam, PC and relevant Government officials.

Rajarathnam presented legal action taken to date while Marine Environment Protection Authority Chairperson Dharshani Lahandapura explained the matters included in the report prepared regarding the damage to the environment, the cleaning of the seashore and the removal of the waste material.

The Minister of Justice gave instructions to the officials to take the necessary steps without delay regarding the legal actions and obtaining the compensation. Wijeyadasa pointed out that the incident attracted the attention of the general public as well as various parties, and reminded the officials that these groups are keeping watch on the Government and its actions in this regard.