A chlorine spill in the Kinbivau area on the Futtaru side of Hithadhoo, Addu City, has caused extensive harm to marine life, with numerous species washing ashore dead.
The affected area, which lacks a natural beach, was first reported by a resident on Monday morning, according to an official from the Addu City Nature Park. Upon investigation, around 15 empty 25 kg chlorine bottles were discovered near the shoreline. The labels indicated that the chlorine was expired.
“This is a severe situation,” the official stated. “Various marine species have been found dead along the beach.” Among the affected marine life are octopuses, cuttlefish, crabs, eels, and several fish species.
The spill has also inflicted significant damage to the local reef, with visible bleaching caused by chlorine contamination.
The incident has been reported to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Maldives Police Service for further investigation. Local authorities are now working to assess the full extent of the environmental damage and to identify the source of the spill.
