Distribution of Japanese-Donated Flood Pumps Begins Across Islands

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has begun distributing flood control pumps donated by the Japanese government to island councils as part of efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness and reduce the impact of flooding.

The pumps were procured under the first phase of the Economic and Social Development Project, which is funded through Japanese grant assistance. 

According to the NDMA, the first deliveries have been made to the councils of Inguraidhoo in Raa Atoll, Kaashidhoo in Kaafu Atoll, Mulah in Meemu Atoll, Feridhoo in Alifu Alifu Atoll and Kandoodhoo in Thaa Atoll.

A total of 40 flood control pumps were acquired under the initial phase of the project. The first round of distribution will cover 20 islands, with each island receiving two pumps along with the required supporting equipment.

The NDMA stated that priority was given to islands that frequently experience flooding and had not previously received similar equipment.

A second phase of the programme is planned to provide drainage pumps to 15 additional islands. These include Ihavandhoo, Dhidhdhoo and Uligan in Haa Alifu Atoll; Nellaidhoo in Haa Dhaalu Atoll; Maafaru in Noonu Atoll; Fainu in Raa Atoll; Kudarikilu in Baa Atoll; Naifaru in Lhaviyani Atoll; Gaafaru in Kaafu Atoll; Buruni in Thaa Atoll; Hulhudheli in Dhaalu Atoll; Magoodhoo and Bilehdhoo in Faafu Atoll; and Hoadhedhdhoo and Kanduhulhudhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.

The distribution programme forms part of broader government efforts to strengthen disaster response capabilities and improve resilience in island communities vulnerable to flooding.

Flooding caused by heavy rainfall and severe weather remains a recurring challenge across the Maldives. In response, the government is implementing stormwater management and drainage projects in Malé and several islands, while also working to enhance early warning systems nationwide.