Food supplies reach Makunudhoo ending shortage

The National Disaster Management Center (NDMC) has transported rice, flour and sugar to an isolated northern island facing a food shortage.

Makunudhoo, located on the northwest of the Maldives archipelago, received 20 sacks of sugar, and 25 sacks each of rice and flour, according to the island council.

The isolated island ran out of staples early this week when a prolonged bout of bad weather grounded food supply boats. Some 1200 people live on Makunudhoo.

The food staples were transported from Haa Dhaal Kulhudhuffushi.

The Maldives imports rice, flour and sugar. Most of the food is transported by sea.

Environmentalists have previously expressed concern over the heavy reliance on imported food, noting that extreme weather events are likely to increase with climate change and will disrupt transportation of food.

The department of meteorology has advised against travel by sea due to rough seas and thunderstorms.

Prolonged bouts of bad weather are unusual in the Maldives during September. Colombo based Foundation for Environment, Climate and Technology (FECT) has predicted above average rainfall in the Maldives up to November, due to the El Nino weather phenomenon.

The coastguard has rescued some 400 passengers stranded at sea this week. No one was harmed.

Residents of Haa Alif Hoarafushi and Gaaf Alif Dhevvadhoo have reported damage to property from strong winds.