Gotabaya orders to take the X-Express Pearl ship into deep-sea immediately

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has instructed to take the MV X-Press Pearl ship that caught fire in Sri Lankan waters to deep sea.

The decision was taken following a special meeting held at the Presidential Secretariat this evening.

Ports Minister Rohitha Abeygunawardena revealed all the details relating to the arrival of the ship from the United Arab Emirates on May 9 which reached in the outskirts of the Colombo Port on May 19.

During the meeting representatives from several sectors, including shipping and environment, pointed out that the ship was at risk of sinking. Their suggestion was to take the ship to the deep sea to minimize possible damage to the marine environment.

Accordingly, based on technical considerations, on the advice of the Attorney General, the President instructed the Chairperson of the Marine Environment Protection Authority to issue an immediate order to take the ship into the deep sea.

President claimed that the decision should be made based on technical facts and advised not to relate any political matters.