Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure has contracted the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) to complete a coastal protection project in Hithaadhoo, Baa Atoll. The agreement was signed by the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of MTCC Shahid Hussain Moosa and Zeeniya Ahmed Hameed, the Permanent Secretary of the Planning Ministry.
MTCC is tasked with completing the coastal protection project within 180 days at a cost of USD1 million. The project involves filling the beach with 7,800cbm of sand, construction of a 610m geobag revetment, and 230m groyne.
Hithaadhoo has a population of 1,420 residents and has a growing local tourism industry and, as such, the beach is linked to economic growth. However, the island began facing coastal erosion in 2012, which is the same year the harbour was developed. The island has since been suffering from this longstanding problem, which remains constant despite changes in weather. Infrastructure development projects also tend to lead to environmental issues, which is why contractors are now required to conduct environmental impact assessments (EIAs) prior to commencing projects.
Hithaadhoo Island Council stated that the coast is now 10 feet away from households in the southern part of the island and that residents will incur irreversible damages if the problem is not solved. MTCC assured that the completion of the coastal protection project will provide a permanent solution.