The Ministry of Housing, Construction and Infrastructure has officially contracted the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) to undertake the major project of developing the harbour and vessel docking area in Faresmaathodaa, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.
The agreement was signed during a special ceremony held at the Housing Ministry. On behalf of Housing, Construction and Infrastructure, the agreement was signed by Minister Dr Abdulla Muththalib, while Deputy Managing Director Mohamed Jamsheed signed on behalf of MTCC.
The scope of this project includes dredging an area of 465,726 cubic meters, constructing a 300-meter quay wall, and installing a 1,462-meter breakwater. Additionally, the project involves the construction of 733 meters of revetment, 133 meters of geo-tube revetment, and 329 meters of groynes. The development also encompasses the installation of a 9,206-square-meter pavement and the construction of a concrete bridge measuring 6 meters in length and 36 meters in width.
MTCC has been awarded this project for a total value of USD 13.55 million, with a completion period of 780 days.
Being an island with an airport and specially known for its fishing proficiency, the overload to its habour has become a major concern for the local community. The completion of this project is expected to ease these concerns and allow for a more efficient system to take place for the loading and unloading of goods.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Dr Muththalib has said that the government has placed a special emphasis on the development of the fisheries sector, noting that Faresmaathodaa is known for fishing.
“Faresmaathodaa houses one of the highest numbers of fishing vessels in the country, in this regard this project will lead to the establishment of resources needed by fishermen. As such a vessel docking area has been included in the project. And the harbour will also be expanded”, Minister Dr Muththalib said.
The member of parliament for Faresmaathodaa constituency, Ashraf Ahmed thanked President Dr Mohamed mUizzu long term vision during the ceremony. He also highlighted Minister Dr Muththalib’s and MTCC’s efforts to advance this project .
Faresmaathodaa is an island that the current government has placed significant attention to. In this regard, the government reclaimed 18 hectares of land on the island last year. And a shore protection effort was also initiated for the reclaimed area.