Nine areas have been designated as vehicle towing zones, where illegally parked vehicles will be towed immediately.

Speaking to the press after a discussion session with the relevant authorities regarding the parking issues, Home Minister Ali Ihusaan noted that vehicles park in places with a high footfall will be towed.

"Now we have identified nine areas that will be designated as tow zones. We will also announce today which areas these will be. These include areas near schools, mosques and public areas with a high footfall," the Minister noted.

Ihusaan said police have already towed vehicles that were registered to zones outside Malé, in addition to vehicles that had illegal number plates with no valid registrations.

The Minister further revealed that the opportunity has now been given to take the vehicles to their respective zones and to complete the official registration during a 40-day period.

After the 40-day period, police will tow such vehicles on the roads, he said. Therefore, the vehicle should be taken to the designated area within 40 days and the registration should be completed, he said.