Deputy Minister of Tourism and Environment Ashraf Nooman has stated that when the current Government assumed office, all water and sewerage projects across the country had been stalled and were in a very difficult condition to proceed.

Speaking on MMTV’s Riyaasee Bayaan programme, Nooman shared updates on efforts underway to deliver water and sewerage services to all islands within the next 18 months, in line with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge.

He said several water and sewerage projects have been planned for this year. These include water and sewerage services required for the tourism zone in Haa Alifu Uligan and Molhadhoo and Haa Dhaalu Nolhivaranfaru, expansion of sewerage services in Laamu Dhan’bidhoo and Shaviyani Feevah, provision of water and sewerage services to newly developed residential areas in Haa Dhaalu Hanimaadhoo, upgrading and rehabilitation of water services in Fuvahmulah City, and repair of sewerage systems in Laamu Isdhoo and Kalaidhoo.

Nooman also noted that two water and sewerage expansion projects are currently underway in Thaa Vilufushi and Meemu Kolhufushi, covering 100 housing units in each island.

He further stated that some of these projects were in a particularly challenging state when the Government took office. Referring to the sewerage project in Shaviyani Feevah, he said the previous administration had proceeded in a manner inconsistent with the approved design, which required the current Government to undertake additional corrective works.

The Deputy Minister added that difficulties have also arisen in certain islands due to challenges in progressing projects. In some cases, councils have not provided the land required for the works. Despite these issues, he said planned projects are being accelerated.

When the current Government assumed office, proper water services were available in 66 islands, while sewerage services had been fully established in 101 islands. Since then, water services have been established in 42 additional islands and sewerage systems in 39 islands.

In his Presidential Address 2026, President Dr Muizzu reaffirmed that within the next 18 months, water and sewerage services will be established in all remaining inhabited islands, ensuring access to these essential services nationwide.