Myanmar Cargo Ship Runs Aground on Thai Coral Reef, Faces ฿12 Million Fine

PHANG-NGA, June 4 (TNA) - A Myanmar-flagged cargo ship, the MV. AYAR LINN, has run aground on a coral reef in Mu Ko Surin National Park, prompting the Department of National Parks (DNP) to seek over 12 million baht in compensation.

The incident has severely damaged approximately 150 square meters of coral reef, including significant impact to blue coral, staghorn, and boulder coral. Debris from the ship, such as cardboard and tires, was also found polluting the reef, further hindering ecosystem recovery.

DNP Director-General Atthapol Charoenchansa has ordered full legal action, both criminal and civil, against the ship's owners. The ฿12 million claim covers roughly ฿10 million for coral restoration, ฿1.6 million for lost opportunities, and ฿400,000 for operational costs. 

Authorities are also working on a salvage plan to remove the vessel with minimal additional harm and are collaborating with experts on long-term reef rehabilitation. -819 (TNA)