Rasfannu re-opened after the petroleum incident

The swimming area of Rasfannu – the artificial beach built at the western end of Male’- has been re-opened after petroleum was spilled into the water, making swimming hazardous.

Rasfannu swimming area was closed off on June 13 after the petroleum was spilled into the water.

An official from Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure spoke to “Sun” and said that evaluations done by Ministry of Health showed that the water was now clean and safe for swimming.

The swimming area was opened up again last week.

Petroleum spilled into Rasfannu swimming area. Photo: Reader contribution

Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu had said that petroleum was deliberately spilled into the water by individuals travelling on a boat.

He said that the boat had stopped near the seawall and spilled petroleum into the water before making its escape.

Police have not been forthcoming with details as the case is still under investigation.

Rasfannu swimming area was also closed off earlier this year, in April, when a sewage pipe leaked waste into the water.

It was re-opened after 18 days in that incident.