Maldives Slashes Waste Collection Fees Amid Mounting Garbage Crisis

In a bid to alleviate the financial burden on citizens and address the growing waste management issues, Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced a significant reduction in garbage disposal fees. The Waste Management Corporation Limited (WAMCO) will now charge MVR 500 instead of the previous MVR 750 for small pickup truck disposal services.

The decision comes as the capital city, Male', grapples with an escalating trash problem, particularly noticeable since the beginning of Ramadan. Streets have been inundated with illegally dumped waste, prompting a joint effort by the Male' City Council, WAMCO, and the Maldives Police Service to tackle the issue.

President Muizzu revealed the fee reduction during a campaign event for the People's National Congress (PNC) parliamentary candidate in Hulhumale' City. He emphasized that the move aims to provide relief to low-income residents who have been struggling with the higher disposal costs.

"After discussions with WAMCO's senior officials, we've agreed to lower the fee from MVR 750 to MVR 500," Muizzu stated, adding that an official announcement from WAMCO is expected soon.

Despite these efforts, the waste problem persists, with images of garbage-strewn streets circulating on social media. Authorities have already fined over 100 individuals for littering, highlighting the severity of the situation.

In an attempt to curb illegal dumping, WAMCO recently offered free waste disposal services in Male' and Hulhumale' for three consecutive days. However, this temporary measure has not fully resolved the ongoing sanitation crisis.

As the government implements this fee reduction, it remains to be seen whether it will effectively address both the financial concerns of citizens and the broader waste management challenges facing the Maldivian capital.