Pic by Nimalsiri Edirisinghe

By Sheain Fernandopulle

While saying the debris or waste washed ashore from the distressed MVX-PRESS PEARL vessel could be hazardous, the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) yesterday said the waste material has not been separately classified yet and therefore, it is extremely dangerous to handle or collect them.   

 The CEA in a statement urged people not to touch or collect any of the flotsam  found washed ashore or floating in the seas.   

It also asked people to inform the CEA provincial officers or call 1981 if they discover such material or if they notice any environmental pollution.   

Moreover, the CEA said they are assessing the environmental impact caused by the fire onboard the vessel and they were taking measures to minimise the damages. 

 
“We have been coordinating with the Marine Environment Protection Authority as to how the waste that come into the country should be properly managed,” it added.