The Ministry of Environment has announced plans to introduce specialised marine vessels to safely transport waste collected from islands across the Maldives.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the President's Office on Tuesday, Director General of Waste Management and Pollution Control Ahmed Muruthala said dedicated vessels are needed to transport waste from islands after it has been processed.

The ministry is developing three vessels under the initiative. One vessel, built in India, is currently undergoing final preparations before being brought to the Maldives, while two landing craft being built locally are expected to be completed and enter service by July next year.

Muruthala said the national waste management policy is designed to support a green and circular economy while contributing to sustainable development goals. He added that the policy aims to reduce the environmental and public health impacts of waste and strengthen the country's waste management system.

He also said the government has strengthened the legal framework for waste management by introducing key regulations, including general waste management rules, service provision regulations, and measures to reduce the use of single-use plastics.