The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy has unveiled an ambitious plan. It aims to complete water and sewerage systems on every inhabited island of the Maldives by the end of 2027.
This initiative marks a dramatic acceleration in essential service delivery. When the current administration took office, only 66 islands had established water networks. Today, that figure has more than doubled.
Rapid Expansion of Piped Water Coverage
Piped water systems now serve 141 islands across the country. Furthermore, construction crews are connecting an additional 75 islands right now. Together, these projects will push total coverage beyond 90 percent.
Sanitation progress mirrors the water rollout. At the start of the administration’s term, sewerage networks reached 101 islands. The Ministry has since extended coverage to 152 islands.
Work continues on the remaining 37 islands. Moreover, the Ministry has set a firm deadline of end-2027 to achieve universal coverage.
Legal Framework Drives the Rollout
The amended Water and Sewerage Act of 2025 underpins the entire drive. The law legally mandates the delivery of these essential services within a specified timeframe.
In addition, the amendment strengthens the regulatory framework. It introduces licensing requirements for professionals working in the sector. It also establishes clear standards for water analysis laboratories. Furthermore, it prescribes penalties for anyone who misuses the systems.
Sustainable Management Through National Policy
The Ministry has widened the project’s scope. New services will now reach reclaimed and dredged areas as well. As a result, infrastructure development and population growth will progress in tandem.
The Ministry has also paired the rollout with enhanced technical guidance. Capacity-building programmes will empower local island councils to manage water and sewerage systems effectively for the long term.