Projects worth MVR1.2 billion in progress: Minister of Environment

Ministry of Environment and Energy has stated that through foreign aid, projects worth MVR1.2 billion are currently being undertaken by the Ministry.

Minister of Environment and Energy Maryam Shakeela said at a press conference held at Velaanaage press room that commencement of several projects had earlier been delayed due to incomplete proposals or lack of information; however, most of these projects have commenced over the past three months.

She provided details of the five largest projects undertaken by the Ministry for which foreign aid had been received.

They are the water and sewerage project worth MVR525 million, environment projects worth about MVR140 million, climate change and research projects worth MVR15 million, energy development projects worth MVR355 million, and waste management projects worth MVR123 million.

“Projects worth total MVR1.2 billion are in progress, all of which are independent of the State budget,” Dr Shakeela said.

She highlighted several the efforts made to strengthen the work of the Ministry since it was established three months ago, such as the constitution of a National Council of Environment, a Climate Change Advisory Council, a Governing Board for the Environment Protection Agency, and the establishment of a Biosphere reserve in Baa Atoll.

She also noted that a plan is being drawn up for development of renewable energy.

“We should be able to present the plan in August, and that would facilitate $30 million,” Shakeela said.