President ratifies amendment extending deadline for water and sewerage systems in islands

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has ratified an amendment extending the deadline for completing water and sewerage systems across all islands of Maldives by an additional two years.

The Water and Sewerage Act, enacted five years ago, required all islands to have adequate systems in place by August 4 this year. While many projects are underway, several islands remain without completed facilities.

The amendment, proposed by Dhidhdhoo MP Abdul Latheef Mohamed on behalf of the government, was passed by parliament on August 11. The new deadline pushes completion to 2027.

According to the President’s Office, the amendment also mandates technical guidance and capacity building for councils, licensing requirements for sector professionals, and strengthened water quality testing services.

Regulations under the amendment must be published within three months from the date of enforcement.

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had pledged to complete water and sewerage systems in all islands in Maldives by 2023, but the target was not met despite the awarding of multiple projects.

Parliament extends deadline for installation of water and sewerage systems in all islands