Trash on Male' streets: One deported, 185 fined

Mayor of Male' City Adam Azim has stated that as of today, 185 persons have been fined for leaving trash on and around Male' streets.

The issue of dumping various kinds of trash of Male' streets has become prevalent since before last Ramadan. With household waste, including large pieces of old and derelict furniture and electric appliances being left on street corners and pavements, the Male' City Council, together with WAMCO and Police, began efforts to combat the issue.

Despite offering free disposal amongst other initiatives, the issue persisted.

Now, the City Council is identifying individuals who continue to leave trash on the streets and are levying fines against them. CCTV footage showing them in the act of illegally disposing waste is also being shared on social media.

Azim said that one person has been handed over to authorities for deportation. The individual in question was identified for throwing trash, and then found to be undocumented and living in the country without necessary permits.

Besides this, the Mayor said that over 180 individuals have been fined. Of these, 85 percent are found be foreigners.

"What we are doing is, when we identify them, if they are undocumented, we then send them for deportation," Azim said.

He confirmed that police are currently working with Immigration on organizing deportation of the individual.

Those found to be leaving trash on the streets are fined MVR 500 for each offence.

In a bid to decrease instances of larger household items being left on streets, WAMCO has reduced the prices they charge for disposal.