The main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has condemned the government and relevant state institutions for negligence regarding maritime safety, following an incident last Thursday night where two vessels under Customs custody drifted and ran aground at the Sinamalé Bridge.
In a press statement, the MDP emphasized that the government must establish and implement a formal protocol for handling vessels taken into state custody.
"Given that the Maldives is an archipelagic nation with a vast maritime territory, we condemn the negligence of the government and state institutions towards maritime safety. We call upon the government to formulate and adhere to a clear policy on handling such foreign vessels," the MDP stated.
The party expressed grave concern over the incident, noting that the two vessels—registered in the Republic of Haiti with unverified ownership—broke anchor while under the supervision of Maldives Customs Service and collided with the Sinamalé Bridge.
Furthermore, the MDP accused the current administration of incompetence and recklessness, stating it has failed to ensure the safety of vessels operating in and around the Malé region.
The opposition party alleged that the incident occurred because the vessels were left unattended for a month and a half, despite authorities being fully aware that the ships lacked proper safety measures.
"Although a decision was made 45 days ago to move these vessels to a safer location due to their poor condition and the risks they posed while anchored near Malé, no action was taken. Despite knowing the vessels lacked any safety standards, they were abandoned for a month and a half, leading to this dangerous accident," the party said.
The MDP also raised questions regarding the speed at which the government inspected the Sinamalé Bridge and concluded that no structural damage had occurred.
"This incompetent and negligent administration has failed to guarantee maritime safety in the capital region. This is a case of gross negligence. It is hardly surprising that two foreign vessels, anchored near Malé with only a single anchor for 45 days, would eventually drift," the MDP added.
The two vessels, identified as MT KG-1 and AL-1, have since taken on water and sunk after colliding with a bridge pillar. Sources confirmed to this news outlet that both vessels were registered in the Republic of Haiti, though their legal owners remain unidentified.
