The Ministry of Environment says an estimated MVR 3.3 billion is required to upgrade and expand water and sewerage systems across the Maldives.

Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, Permanent Secretary Ajuwad Musthafa said an assessment found that many existing systems are outdated and no longer able to meet current demand.

He said the estimate covers upgrade and expansion works nationwide, including the Greater Malé region, based on data collected from utility providers.

Musthafa noted that when water and sewerage services were introduced in Malé in 1996, the systems were designed to serve a population of 60,000 for water services and 45,000 for sewerage services.

However, the latest census data shows that around 211,000 people now live in the Greater Malé region, accounting for 41 per cent of the country's population.

He said the significant increase in population has placed considerable pressure on existing infrastructure, making major upgrades essential to ensure reliable water and sewerage services.