Maldives seeks regional solutions to address seasonal air pollution

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday that the government remains engaged in discussions with regional and international partners to seek long-term solutions to address air pollution and declining air quality in the region.

In a statement issued in response to the current seasonal haze, the ministry said the Maldives is affected each year during the northeast monsoon by air pollution originating from the Indian subcontinent and carried by prevailing winds. The ministry said the situation raises concerns related to public health and the tourism sector.

The Foreign Ministry said the government considers mitigation of these impacts a national priority and is monitoring public concerns regarding current air quality conditions. It said prolonged exposure to transboundary air pollution poses risks to health, the environment and the national economy.

The ministry said the government will continue engagement with regional and international stakeholders to identify sustainable measures to address environmental challenges. It added that as a Small Island Developing State, the Maldives will continue to prioritise environmental protection and sustainable development.

According to the ministry, the haze affecting the Maldives is linked to wider atmospheric conditions in South Asia, where seasonal wind patterns and emissions result in the cross-border movement of pollutants. The ministry said the Maldives’ geographical characteristics increase its exposure to environmental impacts originating beyond its borders.

The Foreign Ministry said it will continue to pursue scientific cooperation, information sharing and diplomatic engagement to address the issue of transboundary air pollution.

Meanwhile, the Maldives Meteorological Service said the haze is expected to persist across the country for the next five days. The service said visibility in northern atolls has fallen to less than two kilometres.