Authority warns up to MVR 1 million fine for illegal dewatering

The Utility Regulatory Authority (URA) has issued a warning on Thursday that a fine of up to MVR 1 million will be imposed for dewatering without the authority’s permission.

In a statement, URA noted that they have observed work being carried out in violation of the Water and Sewerage Act and relevant regulations.

A video where unauthorised dewatering in a construction project has been circulating on social media. The video shows water being released from the ground into a drain.

URA said that if dewatering is done illegally, a fine will be imposed as per the regulations. The regulations were amended in August to allow for large-scale fines to be imposed on violators.

According to the regulation:

The regulation defines dewatering as removing water from land with the help of a pump. Even if extracted water is released back into the construction area, it will still be considered as dewatering. 

Anyone who supports or facilitates unauthorised dewatering will also be fined for abetting in violation of regulations.

"Any work related to dewatering without the authority’s permission will be deemed as a violation of regulations, and the parties involved will be served without discrimination and within legal framework," the URA statement read.

The utility authority has also requested the public to share information regarding any noted illegal dewatering being carried out, and advised the public to carry out such work in accordance with the regulations.