Work Begins on Drainage and Sandbagging After Heavy Rain in Malé

Following heavy rain that caused flooding in the streets of Malé, a joint operation led by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has begun draining water and filling sandbags. The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), police, the Maldives Red Crescent, the City Council, and various companies are taking part in the response. MNDF said teams from the Fire and Rescue Service are using pumps to drain water from the most affected areas, and in coordination with the Malé Area Command, soldiers are filling sandbags to prevent water from entering homes and shops. Police have urged the public to take necessary safety precautions and said their teams are on the streets to assist with traffic and those in need. The Maldives Meteorological Service has forecast continued heavy rain with strong winds across large parts of the country over the next 24 hours and advised the public to remain vigilant.