The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy has completed assessments of freshwater lens on 37 islands in efforts to protect and conserve the Maldives' freshwater resources.

Speaking at a press conference at the President's Office, Director General Mohamed Musthafa said the assessments examined the availability, thickness, salinity and contamination of freshwater aquifers. He said the ministry plans to eventually assess freshwater resources on every inhabited island in the Maldives.

Speaking to State media, the Director General said the studies indicate that many of the country's larger islands continue to have sufficient freshwater reserves. He stressed the importance of preventing pollution of freshwater aquifers, noting that the Maldives has significant potential to preserve its natural groundwater resources. He also said many islands retain natural freshwater reserves that can serve as an important resource during water-related emergencies.

The ministry has been conducting the assessments under its mandate to protect and conserve freshwater resources in line with the National Policy on Environmental Protection and Conservation. Musthafa noted that freshwater layer in several islands have changed since the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, while factors such as population growth, modern water use and groundwater infiltration continue to influence the condition of freshwater resources.