Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has begun the Thinadhoo Industrial Zone Land Reclamation and Shore Protection Project. MTCC stated the bund wall preparation works are currently ongoing.
Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure contracted MTCC in January. The state-owned company is required to complete the project within 660 days at a cost of USD8 million. The scope of the project includes reclamation operations of 10.6 hectares, construction of a 1521m revetment, a 555m quay wall, sheet pile works of 166m, and installation of 4492sqm pavement, bollards, fenders, and lights.
Speaking to PSM News, President of Thinadhoo Island Council Saud Ali said the development of an industrial zone has increased the economic growth of the island, as it attracts many investment opportunities. He said discussions with the relevant authorities are ongoing on how to use the reclaimed land and that the planning stage will be open to public opinion. He detailed the industrial zone will be able to accommodate work related to gas manufacturing, ice plants, and canning factories.
Furthermore, the government plans to complete the development of a regional port in Thinadhoo in early 2023.