The responsibility for removing these vehicles is often unclear, with owners either being difficult to trace or simply abandoning their vehicles without consequence.
SunOnline International
In the Greater Malé Area, renowned for its stunning waterfronts and bustling streets, an unexpected eyesore often catches the attention of both residents and visitors: abandoned vehicles. Despite the region's efforts to enhance urban aesthetics, these derelict cars and motorcycles have become a common, unsightly fixture on the roads. Littered along streets, sometimes parked haphazardly for months or even years, they mar the beauty of the city, contrasting starkly with its scenic surroundings.
These abandoned vehicles are more than just a visual disturbance—they occupy valuable public space that could otherwise serve pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers. In an already densely populated area, where parking is scarce and pavements are narrow, the presence of these unused vehicles compounds the congestion and reduces the ease of movement for everyone. What could be a serene stroll along Malé’s streets or a convenient spot for parking turns into a frustrating experience due to these neglected cars clogging up the area.
The responsibility for removing these vehicles is often unclear, with owners either being difficult to trace or simply abandoning their vehicles without consequence. This lack of accountability allows the problem to persist, leaving the government and municipal bodies to bear the brunt of the burden. Over time, these vehicles become more than just an inconvenience—they deteriorate, becoming rusty, broken-down hulks that can even pose safety hazards, especially for children playing nearby or cyclists trying to navigate narrow streets.
While efforts to tackle the issue of abandoned vehicles have been sluggish in the past, the current administration is taking a more proactive approach to beautify the city streets. As part of this initiative, the Malé City Council has launched a focused effort to clear the streets of these unsightly vehicles. To date, the council has successfully removed 224 damaged and abandoned vehicles, a significant step toward reclaiming public spaces for pedestrians and drivers alike.
This is not the first time such action has been taken. In a previous initiative, the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, in coordination with the Malé City Council and the Waste Management Corporation Limited (WAMCO), removed and destroyed approximately 200 old and unused vehicles. Despite these efforts, the problem continues to resurface, underscoring the need for sustained and efficient management.
Looking ahead, a more comprehensive approach—one that includes regular enforcement, clear policies for vehicle disposal, and public awareness campaigns—will be necessary to prevent abandoned vehicles from becoming a recurring issue. With continuous effort and collaboration among government bodies, the streets of the Greater Malé Area can be transformed into cleaner, more organized spaces, restoring the natural beauty for which the Maldives is renowned. As these initiatives gain momentum, the hope is that the city's streets will no longer be marred by abandoned vehicles but will instead reflect the pristine charm that defines the nation.
