Uncharted Waters: Sri Lanka's Billion-Dollar Quest for Justice in Marine Catastrophe

Sri Lanka faces a legal challenge as it seeks USD 1 billion in compensation from the company owning the Singapore-flagged vessel MV X-Press Pearl, which caused a major marine disaster in the Indian Ocean. The vessel's owners dispute the court order, citing maritime liability concerns.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Colombo | Updated: 23-09-2025 16:51 IST | Created: 23-09-2025 16:51 IST
Uncharted Waters: Sri Lanka's Billion-Dollar Quest for Justice in Marine Catastrophe
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  • Sri Lanka

The Sri Lankan government is preparing to consult the Attorney General after the company owning the MV X-Press Pearl vessel refused to comply with a USD 1 billion compensation order following a devastating marine incident in May 2021.

The Singapore-flagged ship, carrying hazardous chemicals, caught fire near Colombo, leading to widespread pollution and the deaths of marine life.

The vessel's owners challenge the court ruling, warning it could set a precedent, while Sri Lanka pursues legal action against key ship personnel involved.

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