Debris coming from Pearl X-Press not yet classified or identified, says CEA

While saying the debris or waste coming off the distressed MV X-PRESS PEARL vessel are hazardous, the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) today stressed that those waste material have not been yet separately classified and therefore, it is extremely dangerous to touch or collect them.

The CEA in a statement urged people not to touch or collect any of the debris floating in the seas.

It also asked people to inform the CEA provincial officers or call 1981 if people come across such material or if they cause any environmental damage.

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

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