Water pumps donated by the Government of Japan to strengthen flood response efforts have been distributed to 18 islands across the Maldives, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

NDMA said the pumps were provided under the first phase of the Economic and Social Development Project funded by Japan. The project includes the distribution of water drainage pumps to 20 islands, with pumps already handed over to 18 islands. Distribution to B. Kudarikilu and N. Maafaru is yet to be completed.

Under the project, each island will receive two water pumps and related equipment to support flood response operations. NDMA said a further 14 islands will receive pumps during the second phase of the programme.

The Japanese Government has provided disaster response equipment worth USD 4.3 million (MVR 66 million) to the Maldives under the Economic and Social Development Project. According to NDMA, the first phase of the assistance package included 40 fire pumps, 40 water pumps and related equipment.

Japan has been one of the Maldives' key partners in disaster management and response. NDMA noted that Japan provided significant assistance for the establishment and development of the authority in 2015 and 2017. In addition, Japan pledged USD 89,900 under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects to provide two emergency support vehicles for use in Malé City.

NDMA said the assistance would strengthen the Maldives' efforts to address the impacts of climate change, natural disasters and fire emergencies while helping island communities improve their disaster preparedness and response capabilities.