Environment

To disclose crucial details regarding the investigation into the fire incident at the office building housing the Housing Ministry, the police held a press conference on Thursday, 24 September 2026. During this conference, police shared CCTV footage from the time of the incident along with related findings, stating that a power outage was observed in the area prior to the fire igniting, and that there is no evidence of anyone entering the premises intentionally to set the fire. Police also stated that the investigation revealed the building was prone to fire hazards, and that electrical issues had previously been noted there. Furthermore, in order to provide clear information addressing allegations made against the police and public concerns related to the incident, police shared details of how the investigation was conducted in light of body-worn camera footage from officers who attended the scene and other evidence.

On 24 September 2026, the latest updates were disclosed regarding the Reethi Raajje Award for AA. Mathiveri. This update mainly includes information on ongoing activities and steps being taken toward winning the award as part of efforts to protect the environment and maintain the island's beauty in Mathiveri. Furthermore, the news also highlighted the progress of various environmental projects being run at the island level under this program, as well as plans to increase public participation.

The Minister said that ongoing land reclamation projects will be paused and halted if coral bleaching is observed on Maldives' reefs. The Minister made this statement while highlighting that the government prioritizes reducing potential harm to the environment and reef biodiversity, as well as protecting the marine ecosystem during delicate coral spawning and bleaching situations. In this regard, he also noted that relevant authorities will closely monitor the condition of reefs, assess adverse impacts on the environment, and take necessary measures if alterations to land reclamation works become required. This decision by the government is an important step toward minimizing damage to the natural environment while carrying out development projects.

As announced on Thursday, September 24, 2026, the significant target of increasing renewable energy capacity to 126 megawatts has been achieved. This progress is a major step forward in efforts to increase the capacity for producing environmentally friendly energy and to reduce reliance on fuel. Furthermore, this increase in renewable energy capacity will expand sustainable energy resources and provide additional momentum toward ensuring energy security at the national level.

It has been revealed that under the national program to plant five million trees being carried out in the Maldives, a total of 2.3 million trees have been planted as of September 24, 2026. While extensive efforts are being undertaken to reach the target of this major project aimed at protecting the environment and increasing greenery, this is noted as a significant advancement for the program. As tree planting activities proceed swiftly across the Maldives under this program, both the government and members of the public continue to participate in achieving the designated target of five million trees.