The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced the initiation of a survey addressing the ongoing coral bleaching issue, as shared in a recent social media post.

The Maldives has been experiencing persistent coral bleaching, exacerbated by rising sea temperatures, with significant occurrences dating back to 1998. EPA has notably observed an increase in coral bleaching cases in recent years, attributing it partly to human activities that disrupt reef conditions.

Furthermore, EPA warns that extensive land reclamation and beach nourishment activities could further delay reef regeneration. The agency is further actively investigating complaints that some project operators are not adhering to the measures that were strategically reinforced to be effectively implemented.

Additionally, EPA has implemented several initiatives, to extensively mitigate the negative impacts of the “Mass Coral Bleaching Event,” encompassing temporary moratorium on all major coastal development projects and land reclamation activities until June 10, 2024. However, some works have been allowed to continue. Concurrently, EPA has requested a halt to activities such as land reclamation, sand mining, beach development, and the construction of reef pipelines, cables, and bund walls.

Currently, the Maldives is at “Alert Level One” for coral bleaching, with reports of bleaching coming in from various areas.

Source(s): PsmNews

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced the construction of ‘Isravvehinge Hiyaavehi,’ a dedicated home for the elderly in Addu City. The decision followed a Cabinet meeting at the President’s Office, where a proposal from the Ministry of Social and Family Development was reviewed.

‘Isravvehinge Hiyaavehi’ aims to create a supportive environment for elderly individuals who require state care due to the absence of family support, ensuring they can live their remaining years in comfort and contentment. The facility will offer high-quality services and will be funded by the state budget.

In addition to the initiative, the government will introduce regulations allowing individuals who live with or care for seniors to earn points in new housing schemes, promoting family-based care for the elderly. Furthermore, President Dr. Muizzu has committed to amending existing laws and regulations to better protect the rights of the elderly.

Source(s): PsmNews

Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information and Art on Tuesday announced decision to extend financial assistance to local associations to execute community empowerment projects.

The ministry said, civil organizations or associations registered in accordance with the Associations Act and affilaited regulations will be eligible to submit proposals seeking financial support.

Interested associations are required to submit proposals by 13:00hrs on June 04, 2024.

Under the initial phase of the program, government aims to provide financial support for small, medium, and extensive community-centric initiatives by the associations.

Eligible and interested proponents may submit proposals at csogrant@youth.gov.mv. The proponents are required to submit the following supporting documents along with the proposals;

• Registration Copy of the Association
• National ID Card copies of all the individuals responsible in various components and aspects of the initiative
• For projects listed under Island Development Plan, the consent letter from the relevant local council body
• Other supporting documents of the initiative

The ministry said this loan support aims to encourage civil societies and associations in their continued efforts to empower local communities, endorse and assist in these endeavors and enhance involvement of the civil associations in the national development.

Source(s): sun.mv