Nolhivaranfaru Council Says Challenges Remain in Returning to Normal After Flooding

The Nolhivaranfaru Council in Haa Dhaalu Atoll says water pumping from the island has been completed, but it will take another three to four days before the island can return to normal conditions. The island was severely affected by flooding caused by heavy rains that battered the whole of the Maldives over the past week, with Nolhivaranfaru suffering the greatest damage in the north. Council President Ahmed Aamir told PSM News that flooding began on the 22nd of this month and caused major damage, forcing the temporary relocation of families from 37 households to safer areas. He said assessments so far show that 70 percent of the island's 448 buildings have sustained damage of varying degrees. Aamir said pumping operations started on the 23rd from 6:30 am, with the last pump switched off at 8:20 am today. Six channels were cut to connect with the sea to drain the floodwater. He acknowledged assistance from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), police, Kulhudhuffushi City Council, and aid associations in the pumping efforts. The council has also received a permanent water pump and three additional pipes as donations. However, Aamir noted that significant obstacles remain. Roads on the island have been badly damaged, making movement difficult, and with no gravel available on the island, repairs cannot be carried out without government assistance to arrange sand supplies. He also highlighted difficulties caused by sewage overflow, saying that despite cleaning with Dettol and various chemicals, the odour persists and repeated cleaning is required. Aamir expressed deep gratitude to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, who called to check on the island's situation, and thanked all parties who provided assistance during the flooding and in the ongoing recovery efforts.