Environment Ministry hands over 22 pickups to WAMCO for use in islands

The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy has handed over 22 vehicles to the Waste Management Corporation (WAMCO) to strengthen waste management operations across the country.

According to information released by the Ministry today, the fleet comprises 10 island pickups and 12 pickup trucks with a capacity of 350kg.

The vehicles were provided to equip WAMCO with the necessary resources as the corporation prepares to launch and expand waste collection services across various islands. The Ministry stated that the vehicles will strengthen existing services and support the expansion of waste management operations to new areas, with a particular focus on atoll capitals and major urban centers.

The island pickups are specifically designed to navigate the narrow streets of local islands and facilitate door-to-door household waste collection. Meanwhile, the 350kg-capacity trucks will be used to transport bulk waste and transfer waste from various collection points to centralized waste management facilities.

The Ministry further noted that the vehicles will help streamline regular waste collection from businesses and public institutions. The additional resources are expected to address key challenges in island waste management and help mitigate issues such as illegal littering and improper waste disposal.

The government aims to establish WAMCO operations across the Maldives to ensure that sustainable and safe waste management services are available to all citizens.

Although WAMCO currently operates in the Greater Malé Area and several atolls, many islands continue to face challenges due to inadequate equipment. The Ministry stated that the vehicle handover will significantly support the expansion of WAMCO’s operations, adding that the government remains committed to providing essential waste management resources to additional islands in the future.