Combatting rising sea levels – Maldives to build fortress islands for protection 

Maldives in the eyes of a traveller would involve luxury stays at world-class resorts like those by Park Hotel Group that offer some of the best things to do in Maldives from water sports to underwater exploration. However, the archipelago to the locals is their home where each day is spent. Thus, the pressing issue of rising sea levels is gradually impacting the lives of the island’s inhabitants.

In response to this issue, the Prime Minister of Maldives proposed land reclamation and construction of more elevated islands. The President is currently looking for foreign funding for a $500 million project to fortify the coasts of the islands by building sea walls and categorising safe islands. While those living in the Maldives could be the world’s first environmental refugees, the President is determined to ensure that citizens will be able to go on living in their homeland without having to leave.