The MV X-PRESS PEARL, which is in trouble, is expected to sink in the next several hours, according to the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA)
“There is a danger of an explosion reoccurring aboard the ship, as the fire continues to expand,” said Dr. Turney Pradeep Kumara, the General Manager of the Marine Environment Protection Authority. The proper preparations were taken to deal with any eventuality, including having the necessary manpower and equipment on hand.
When asked about the possibility of fuel leakage into Sri Lankan waters if the vessel submerges, Dr. Turney Pradeep Kumara said an urgent oil spill management plan is now in place, as well as the perfect tools to contain spilled oil.
People in coastal regions, according to Dr. Turney Pradeep Kumara, have already been warned about the situation.
In response to a question about demanding compensation for the harm the X-PRESS PEARL did to the Sri Lankan marine ecosystem, Dr. Turney Pradeep Kumara indicated that an original comment had been filed and that the staff onboard the ship will be interviewed in the following days.
MEPA’s General Manager stated that “appropriate legal proceedings would be filed against by the Captain of the ship and the involved entities through the Attorney General, in accordance with the requirements of the Marine Pollution Control Act of Sri Lanka.”