Public outcry grows over prolonged failure to clear Fuvahmulah waste disposal site
2 ނޮވެމްބަރު 2026 | ހޯމަ 11:23Residents are raising concerns over the foul odor emanating from the Fuvahmulah waste disposal site, which has contaminated groundwater and disrupted educational activities at Hafiz Ahmed School. Due to the Waste Management Corporation's (WAMCO) failure to adequately address the issue, the City Council has now initiated efforts to independently procure an incinerator to resolve the crisis.
The foul stench and fly infestation emanating from the Fuvahmulah waste disposal site are causing significant disruptions to the daily lives of local residents. | Wamco
Residents have begun expressing widespread concern as the waste management site operated by the Waste Management Corporation (WAMCO) in Fuvahmulah’s Funadu district remains uncleaned for an extended period. The accumulation of waste has resulted in a foul odor spreading throughout the area, creating a significant public nuisance.
Residents living near the landfill report that groundwater in neighboring houses has become contaminated and unusable due to the disposal of biodegradable waste into pits dug for composting. Furthermore, the entire area is facing a severe fly infestation. The foul odor reaching Hafiz Ahmed School (HAS), located a short distance from the site, has also created significant challenges for students and teachers during classroom sessions.
Regarding the matter, Fuvahmulah City Deputy Mayor Mohamed Lirar stated that discussions have been held with the Ministry of Environment and the Waste Management Corporation (WAMCO) to resolve the city's waste management issues. He noted that the Ministry has informed the council that WAMCO has been tasked with transferring the existing legacy waste to Gaafu Alif Atoll Diyadhoo. However, Lirar highlighted that since WAMCO is not utilizing the incinerators and composting machinery already brought to the island, the council is now working to independently acquire an incinerator through a grant fund.
