China to Build Desalination Plants in Five Islands
The Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure has revealed the completeion and transfer of China’s free grant initiative, aimed at delivering potable water to five islands within the Maldives.
Part of the China Aid Micro-Grid Seawater Desalination Project, the endeavour encompassed Alifushi in Raa Atoll, Olhuvelifushi in Lhaviyani Atoll, Kelaa in Haa Alifu Atoll, Dhaandhoo in Gaafu Alifu Atoll, and Kaashidhoo in Kaafu Atoll.
In this framework, desalination facilities with a daily output of 200 tonnes were installed in Alifushi, Olhuvelifushi, Kelaa, and Dhaandhoo, augmented by the integration of 200kW solar panels on these islands. Furthermore, Kaashidhoo witnessed the introduction of a 200-tonne per day desalination facility, complemented by an extra 100kW wind turbine and 100kW solar panels.
At a ceremony commemorating the culmination of the projects, Ambassador of China to the Maldives Wang Lixin and Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Dr. Abdulla Muththalib formally executed the handover documents, transferring the project to the Maldivian government.
The agreement for the project was inked in December 2017, outlining the provision of clean drinking water to five islands through China’s complimentary grant programme. Fieldwork for the project commenced in May 2022, with the total expenditure reaching USD11.8 million.