MALE, April 10 (HNS) – Water Ministry has opened the opportunity for those interested to supply water to five islands in the same manner desalinated water is supplied to Male.

Energy and Water Ministry’s Deputy Director Ahmed Waheed said Sunday that the successful party chosen to supply water to the islands using pipelines will be given a license for 10 – 20 years.

He said that no other party would be allowed to supply water to those islands during that duration.

The islands chosen are Baa Eydhafushi, Lhaviyani Naifaru and Hinnavaru, Gaafu Dhaalu Thinadhoo and Seenu Hithadhoo.

“Those islands were chosen because of the large population in those islands and because the greater need is in those islands. This is the beginning of this. Based on the support shown for this more islands will be selected,” Ahmed Waheed said.

“From the parties interested in providing this service priority will be given to those who will provide the service at an affordable rate for a long duration.”

He said that the government company, Male Water and Sewerage Company which supplies water to Male is also eligible to supply water to those five islands.

The islands which are supplied water via pipelines are Male, Vilimale, Hulhumale and Shaviyani Komandoo.