VOA常速英语:Safe Drinking Water for Maldives

The United States Agency for International Development, or USAID, and the Government of Maldives inaugurated a $3.8 million integrated water supply and distribution system recently, providing a safe and reliable water source for more than 4,000 residents of Hinnavaru Island.

The system collects water from rainwater harvesting tanks, mixes it with desalinated water, and distributes it through a piped network to households on the island.

The system includes an 80 cubic meter/day capacity “reverse osmosis unit” housed in a facility partially powered by solar energy and complemented by a ground water filtration system that collects excess rainwater and directs it to the island's aquifer, supporting the recharging of the island's groundwater over time.

To serve the water quality testing needs of Hinnavaru and nearby islands, the facility is also equipped with a regional water quality testing laboratory. Additionally, the facility includes space for utility staff daily operations.

The USAID-funded system was designed and constructed by the United Nations Office for Project Services, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Energy, Fenaka Corporation Limited, and the Hinnavaru Island Council. USAID also provided technical assistance and training for water utility officials to operate and maintain the system, currently operated by Fenaka Corporation Limited.

“Around the world, USAID and its partners are working towards a healthier and water secure future for all,” said Dr. Andrew Sisson, USAID Mission Director for Sri Lanka and Maldives.

“Therefore, we are proud to have supported a successful partnership with the government and people of Maldives to ensure safe and high quality drinking water on one of Maldives' most populous islands, through an integrated water supply and distribution system.”