EPA investigates mass clam die-off in North Velidhu lagoon

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced it is investigating a mass die-off of clams in the lagoon of North Velidhu, working alongside the island council. Videos shared on social media by residents on 31 October showed large numbers of clams dead and washed ashore. Although no official report has been lodged, the EPA confirmed it is examining the case based on information received. Velidhu Council Deputy Mayor Hafiza Ibrahim initially attributed the deaths to water used for cooking crab being dumped from a boat that came close to the island for loading oil. However, she later said police informed the council that the boat was not a crab-loading vessel, and the direct cause remains unknown, with low tide and consequent lack of oxygen being a likely factor. Hafiza noted that since Velidhu has few ocean fishing vessels, many residents rely on clams for food, describing the incident as a significant hardship for the community.