The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has formulated Island Disaster Management Plans for 64 islands.
Every island must have a disaster management plan and an established disaster management committee, according to the Disaster Management Act. As such, the plan is being developed in islands with the assistance of NDMA. Training programmes are also being conducted to prepare institutions to implement the plan. The programmes include conducting an assessment of each island, developing a Disaster Management Plan, and developing procedures for notifying residents as soon as possible in such a situation. Every island must also have a disaster management committee, according to the law.
NDMA stated that Disaster Management Plans have been prepared for 64 islands so far. Preparation for plans for seven more islands is underway with the assistance of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre (ADPC).
NDMA stated that the first training programme has been conducted in Dhehvadhoo, Gaafu Alifu Atoll. The programme also includes awareness campaigns. The programme will be conducted for five days on each island. NDMA stated that having such a plan in place would greatly facilitate quick action in times of disaster.