Minister of construction and Infrastructure Dr. Abdulla Muththalib has stated that the temporary drainage systems being installed will assist in reducing the challenges faced by residents during the rainy season, until the Male' City's road construction, funded by a grant from the Chinese government, is completed.
In a social media post, Minister Dr. Muththalib revealed that the temporary drainage systems have been set up near West Park and the Villingili Ferry Terminal and the area surrounding Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), following the directives issued by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. The minister stated that this initiative aims to reduce the challenges households face in daily activities, due to flooding. He noted that the project is carried out by the ministry, in collaboration with the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and the Road Development Corporation (RDC).
Highlighting that the works pertaining to the installation of the drainage systems commenced on May 10, Minister Dr. Muththalib revealed the government's plans of installing these systems in five key locations. Of these, the drainage systems have currently been installed in three locations.
Additionally, Minister Dr. Muththalib acknowledged that this was not a permanent solution to address the flooding issues. However, the minister stated that the drainage systems will play a significant role in mitigating flooding, until the road development of Male' City is completed. It also will help to facilitate more efficient flood drainage operations, utilising pumps. He further stated that the ministry will continue to monitor and ensure maintenance of the storm water management systems situated in various locations of Male' City.
A permanent solution to the flooding issues in Male' will be provided through the Chinese government's grant. The city's roads were constructed many years ago and are prone to flooding during the rainy season, causing water damage to some households.