n a significant step toward improving urban sanitation and flood prevention, Malé City Council has announced that more than 21,663 drains have been cleaned since the start of its ongoing drainage maintenance program.
According to official statistics, this large-scale operation has resulted in the removal of 1,608 tonnes of sand and debris from drains across the city. The cleaning efforts span from August 2013 to August 2025, covering key areas frequently affected by flooding and blocked drainage systems.
Despite the progress, the council notes that some deeper pipelines still remain uncleared, with further work planned in the coming months.
Mayor Adam Azim said the initiative is aimed at ensuring the safety and convenience of both pedestrians and vehicles in Malé, especially during the rainy season when waterlogging and street flooding are common issues.
“These blocked drains and canals are one of the main causes of flooding on our roads,” said Mayor Azim. “When they are filled with sand, plastic, and other waste, rainwater has nowhere to go, leading to dangerous and unsanitary conditions. Cleaning them is vital to keep the city functioning properly.”
The Mayor also emphasized the importance of public support in maintaining the city’s cleanliness. “We need full cooperation from residents. Everyone must take responsibility and avoid littering, which directly contributes to drain blockages.”
Mayor Azim has set an ambitious goal to complete the cleaning of all major drains and canals in Malé by the end of this year, as part of his broader plan to make the capital city cleaner, safer, and more livable.
“This is about restoring pride in our city. We want the streets of Malé to be beautiful, functional, and worthy of the people who call it home,” he added.
The City Council’s drain-cleaning campaign is part of a wider urban improvement strategy, which includes waste management, repainting of public spaces, and infrastructure maintenance—all contributing to the transformation of Malé into a modern, well-managed capital city.