President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the much-anticipated Milandhoo Airport project is on track for completion and opening within the next 30 months.
Addressing the residents of Milandhoo, Shaviyani Atoll as part of his ongoing tour of the atoll, President Dr Muizzu emphasised the airport's pivotal role in fostering comprehensive development for the island and the entire northern Atoll.
The landmark airport project, a key promise made to the people of Milandhoo, has been awarded to Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL). The selection of the site, according to the President, was carefully considered to ensure optimal land utilisation in the medium and long term. The project will involve the reclamation of an additional 40 hectares of land, with the dredging work slated for completion within a maximum of eight months.
"The agreement signed with MACL encompasses all necessary work for the airport's construction, including the 40 hectares of dredging and the upgrading of the new harbour," he said.
"Within 30 months from today, at most two and a half years, we will complete and open the airport, which includes the replacement of the existing harbour and the construction of a new one."
President Dr Muizzu assured the community that the airport project will proceed with expediency, free from any delays. Beyond the airport, the President highlighted several other significant development initiatives inaugurated or underway during his visit, underscoring his administration's commitment to Milandhoo's developmental progress.
These include the establishment of a modern 700-capacity Islamic centre, a 30-bed hospital, and a four-story police station. The introduction of passport renewal services and newly opened sports facilities were also cited as crucial steps in the island's advancement.
Additionally, he pledged the government’s full support for the Milandhoo island council's efforts to develop a 1,200-capacity indoor sports complex and a handball court, aiming to bolster sports opportunities for the youth. The President concluded by assuring the residents that the development of 50 housing units and other vital projects will be given the highest priority by his administration.
To kickoff the developmental plan, the President during the visit, witnessed the groundbreaking on the Islamic Centre, hospital and a new police station in Milandhoo before attending the ceremony held to award the coastal protection project contract to MTCC.
He also officially inaugurated the new futsal ground and volleyball court in Milandhoo.
Despite the extensive developmental vision for the island, President Dr Muizzu used the opportunity to meet with members of the Milandhoo Island Council, the Women’s Development Committee, and heads of local institutions to discuss the island’s key development priorities.
During the meeting, council members emphasised the need to initiate WMCO services, establish a public works unit, and provide oil to fishermen at the harbour. They also called for essential utility services, including water, sewerage, and electricity, for 50 housing units currently under construction. Additional requests included the introduction of RTL bus services and the development of a city hotel once the airport becomes operational.
School representatives raised concerns about water leakage in classrooms during the rainy season and requested the installation of an elevator in the school building. Health officials highlighted the urgent need to begin X-ray and dialysis services on the island.
President Dr Muizzu assured participants that the Government would give due consideration to their concerns.
The President is now into his third day of his four day tour of Shaviyani Atoll as part of his nationwide initiative to travel across all Maldivian atolls, engaging with atoll, island, and city councils directly.