The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has revealed that the harbour development project in Hanimaadhoo, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, has been completed.
Hanimaadhoo is a key island for the economy of the northern atolls. The use of the harbour has increased with the demand for Hanimaadhoo International Airport. At the same time, the economic activity of the island has increased with the relocation of people from two islands to Hanimaadhoo which now has a population of 2,300.
Speaking to PSM News, President of the Hanimaadhoo Island Council Firaaq Mohamed said the new harbour will provide space for the increasing number of vessels although the residents have faced many hardships in the past. He also said that Hanimaadhoo is a key island for the economy of the northern atolls with the main airport located on the island.
Hanimaadhoo is also a thriving local tourism destination. There are currently five guesthouses registered on the island with a total of 150 beds. Along with the guest houses, diving boats, launches and dinghies have also increased on the island, according to the Hanimaadhoo Island Council.
The government awarded the development of the old harbour to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) in October 2020. MTCC is repairing the old harbour and developing a new 1,200ft harbour, as part of the agreement. MTCC has also constructed a bridge along with the harbour developed at Hanimaadhoo at a total cost of USD4.2 million from the state budget.