The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Tuesday said that there has been an increase in complaints regarding the storage of various articles of metal, including aluminium, iron, and copper, in residential areas.
The EPA's statement said that multiple complaints were received about the storage, cleaning, and recycling of various articles of metal in residential areas. The agency said storage and work on metal in warehouses within residential areas posed health issues and exposed the public to hazardous conditions.
The EPA also said that waste and scrap should only be stored, treated, and recycled with the right permits, in accordance with the Waste Management Act of the Maldives. Such work without permission is a punishable offence, the agency reminded.
The EPA also said that treating waste or scrap should be carried out with precaution and after ensuring all safety measures are taken.
"Therefore, those engaged in the storage, cleaning, and recycling of minerals are to submit an application for permission within 30 days if they wish to continue these activities," EPA's statement read.
The EPA also urged everyone involved in scrap or metal trading to help ensure the public safety.
The storage of hazardous materials in residential areas is a continual problem in Malé, and several accidents have occurred as a result.
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