BEIJING, Dec. 7 -- Two Chinese military aircraft laden with 40 tons of drinking water left for the water-starved Maldives on Sunday night, according to the Defence Ministry.

The two aircraft from the Chinese air force are expected to arrive at Male, capital of Maldives, at 4 a.m. (Beijing Time) on Monday, the ministry said.

A marine rescue vessel of the Chinese navy has been dispatched to transport about 1,000 tons fresh water to Male on Friday, and it is scheduled to arrive at 3 a.m. Monday.

China has also provided emergency aid in cash in response to Maldivian government's request.

About 150,000 residents are faced with water scarcity in Male after a fire damaged equipments of the Maldives Water and Sewage Company and forced suspension of water supply on Thursday.