Cargo boat runs aground near Khulhudhuffushi after engine repairs

After undergoing engine repairs in HDh. Khulhudhuffushi, a cargo boat bound for HA. Kelaa ran aground in the island’s lagoon earlier today.

The vessel, DML Express, had been delivering goods from Malé to Kelaa.

Adam Gufran, a shareholder of the boat and former president of the Kelaa Council, told Mihaaru News that the ship had been brought to Khulhudhuffushi specifically for engine repairs.

“It happened as they were leaving for Kelaa this evening,” Gufran said. “There was no cargo onboard. They were simply heading home after the engine was fixed, but the engine stalled and the boat drifted onto the reef.”

At the time of the incident, there were four Indian and six Bangladeshi crew members on board.

The boat was heading west, towards the port of Khulhudhuffushi, when it ran aground. The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and the local island council are currently assisting in the rescue efforts.