President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has emphasised that establishing a strong and integrated transport network across land, sea, and air is vital to improving public mobility, facilitating trade, and driving national economic growth.
The President made these remarks this morning whilst delivering the Presidential Address at the first sitting of the first session of the 20th People's Majlis for the year.
Highlighting the role of transport infrastructure in strengthening the tourism sector, the President stated that continued investment in airport development, the expansion of international and domestic air routes, and the establishment of resilient transport networks are essential. He also noted that these initiatives form a key component of the Government’s climate adaptation efforts.
Outlining progress in the aviation sector, the President stated that multiple airport development projects are currently underway nationwide. He added that upgrades to existing airports have enabled all operational airports in the Maldives to facilitate night landings, with services now fully operational.
Under the Sustainable Development Policy, the President highlighted the commencement of integrated air connectivity services using Twin Otter aircraft with wheeled landing capabilities, which began on 1 February. These services connect the four southernmost atolls within the Integrated Development Zone, including Gan in Addu Atoll, Fuvahmulah City and Huvadhu Atoll. He further noted that as part of efforts to expand seaplane services for both the tourism sector and the general public, flights to N. Velidhoo commenced on 22 January, with plans to extend services to additional regions.
President Dr Muizzu further provided updates on the Administration’s efforts to strengthen inter-island connectivity through harbour development projects currently underway across the country. He emphasised that the sustainability of maritime transport depends on prioritising essential port and harbour infrastructure.
Addressing land transport, the President outlined ongoing initiatives to establish high-quality and sustainable road infrastructure. To accelerate road construction projects and reduce costs associated with renting machinery, he announced that modern equipment and machinery will be procured for the Road Development Corporation (RDC) by the end of April. This will enhance the corporation’s capacity to implement projects simultaneously across multiple islands in a more cost-effective manner.
The President further assured that, alongside modern road development, sand roads in islands with active local tourism will be upgraded with proper drainage systems, in line with requests from residents.