Mitsui OSK Lines, the Japanese operator of the ship MV Wakashio which spilt 1,000 tonnes of fuel in Mauritius coral-filled waters has said that it will pay $9.4 million to help restore areas affected by the spill.
Mitsui OSK Lines said in a statement that it planned “to contribute a total fund of about one billion Japanese yen over several years to support measures” to restore the marine environment. Mangrove protection projects and coral protection projects will be run in collaboration with local NGOs and experts and an environment recovery fund will be set up too. The boat which was carrying about 4000 tonnes of fuel split 1000 tonnes of it and affected the mangrove areas.
Nagashiki, the vessel’s owner last month pledged to “sincerely” respond to requests for compensation. It is not clarified yet if the funds promised by Mitsui OSK Lines satisfy the demands from the Mauritius government for compensation from the companies for “all losses and damages” caused by the spill and clean-up costs. Toshimitsu Motegi, Japan’s Foreign Minister said last week the country would continue supporting recovery efforts.
Mauritius authorities are still investigating the incident.
