President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the construction of synthetic running tracks in all islands designated as cities across the Maldives will commence within this year.
The President's commitment came during a press conference held at the President's Office, where he addressed questions from journalists regarding athletics infrastructure development plans for the nation's urban centres.
Reaffirming the government's dedication to sports infrastructure, President Muizzu stated clearly that synthetic tracks will be built in all cities without exception. While he refrained from specifying an exact start date for the projects, the President provided assurance that work on all identified tracks would commence before the conclusion of the current year.
"I want to confirm that synthetic tracks will be constructed in all cities. Hopefully, the work will begin within this year. While we cannot specify an exact start date at this moment, I can assure you that these projects will be carried out across all cities within this year,” he said.
The initiative forms part of a broader framework of sports development funded through an Indian Line of Credit arrangement. Under this financing mechanism, synthetic tracks have been designated for construction in Kulhudhuffushi City, Addu City, Fuvahmulah City, and Thinadhoo City.
The government's partnership with India on sports infrastructure has already yielded tangible results, most notably with the synthetic track constructed around the cricket ground at the Maafannu Stadium.
The government has emphasised that the completion of these synthetic tracks will create significant opportunities for Maldivian athletes seeking to develop their skills in track and field disciplines.