Canals cleaned to reduce flooding in Malé, mayor says

Male Mayor Adam Azim has stated that the issue of flooding in Malé City during rainfall has been addressed through the cleaning of drainage canals.

Azim made the remarks during a public meeting held at the Malé City Council office Tuesday evening. He said the persistent issue of floodwater entering homes during heavy rain was primarily due to blocked drainage systems, which had not been regularly cleaned.

He explained that since the council initiated a consistent canal-cleaning programme, the situation has improved significantly, with fewer reports of water entering houses during rain. Azim noted that residents are now able to sleep without concern during such weather.

"When it rains, I used to worry about how many residents would face difficulties. The flooding caused damage to furniture in over 300 houses, and on rainy days, the council would receive more than 300 calls," he said.

Azim added that during past incidents, officials from various ministries would be seen entering affected homes wearing protective coats.

The mayor outlined the council’s current objective of allowing residents, emergency responders, and council staff to remain at home during rainy days, stating, "We aim to keep you at home, the army and police at home, and our employees at home during the rain."

According to a presentation by the council, one of the key initiatives to address flooding is the permanent cleaning of drainage canals across Malé City. The council stated that: