Audit finds MVR 930 million in uncollected environmental fines

An audit of the Ministry of Environment has found that the state has not received MVR 930.3 million in fines imposed for environmental damage.

According to the audit report, the unpaid fines accumulated from the enactment of the Environmental Damage Penalties and Compensation Rules in 2011 until September last year.

The report said the funds were not collected within the periods prescribed under existing regulations and recommended a series of measures to recover the outstanding amounts.

The audit advised the ministry to take action to recover the fines within the stipulated payment periods.

It further stated that if payment is not received within the initial deadline, an additional seven days should be granted in writing in accordance with the Financial Rules.

If payment is still not made after the extended period, the report said a final notice granting a further seven days should be issued.

In cases where payment is not made after the final notice, the ministry was advised to file the matter in court.

If the fines remain unpaid after court proceedings, the audit recommended that the matter be referred to the Ministry of Finance for a decision on recovery.