The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy has completed detailed studies assessing the condition of freshwater lenses on 37 islands across the Maldives.
The ministry said that protecting and conserving freshwater resources on inhabited islands is one of its legal responsibilities under the National Environmental Protection Policy.
As part of this effort, the ministry has been conducting studies to assess the condition of freshwater resources on islands throughout the country. Speaking at a press briefing held at the President’s Office, Director General Mohamed Musthafa revealed that detailed assessments have so far been completed on 37 islands.
“We are continuously working to protect our freshwater resources. So far, detailed assessments have been carried out on 37 islands. Going forward, we aim to determine the status of freshwater resources on every island in the Maldives,” Musthafa said.
Speaking to PSM News, Musthafa explained that the studies carried out so far indicate that larger islands generally retain freshwater resources in relatively good condition. The assessments examine the thickness and extent of freshwater lenses, the level of saltwater intrusion, and changes in groundwater conditions over time.
He also highlighted that contamination from sewage seepage into the ground is one of the key factors affecting freshwater lenses, stressing that preventing such pollution is essential. At the same time, he noted that there remains significant potential to protect the Maldives’ freshwater resources. He added that many islands still possess natural freshwater reserves that could help improve resilience during water-related emergencies.
Following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which severely affected the Maldives, the government began developing water supply and sewerage services as essential public utilities nationwide. The tsunami caused major changes to freshwater lenses on many islands, and residents of several islands subsequently reported changes in the taste, smell and colour of groundwater.
Increasing island populations, higher water consumption driven by modern lifestyles, and the discharge of wastewater into the ground are also believed to have contributed to the deterioration of freshwater lenses across the Maldives.