Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has completed the construction of the quay wall, breakwater, and groyne as part of the harbour development project in Hinnavaru, Lhaviyani Atoll. MTCC stated that the overall project is 66% complete.
The Ministry of National Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure contracted MTCC to develop the harbour in Hinnavaru in 2020. The Scope of works for the project includes reclamation operations of 3.2 hectares, dredging operations of 65,170cbm, construction of a 421m quay wall, a 123m breakwater, and a 170m revetment. The total cost of the project is over USD6.4 million.
Hinnavaru is an important location for the economy of Lhaviyani Atoll. However, issues in travel and transport in and out of the island have hindered its development. MTCC began the development of the harbour after repairing the damaged parts of the old harbour.
Hinnavaru Island Council stated that many fishing vessels, boats, and speedboats travel to the island and the damage to the harbour have been a challenge for businesses and travellers. The council stated that it expects the harbour development project to solve the issues in travel and transport and pave the way for the development of the island.