Chief Executive Officer of the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), Adam Azim, has stated the design of several projects has been proposed to be changed by residents and local councils after the simultaneous launch of multiple projects across the country.
During his visit to the northernmost islands to assess the progress of MTCC projects, Adam Azim mentioned that project designs are prepared by experts who consider the sensitive environment of the Maldives after conducting thorough research and reports. He highlighted that altering the design of a project after practical work has commenced can be costly for the government, especially after the study and preparation of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports. These changes have resulted in delays in completing the projects, he noted.
Further, he noted that one such project awarded to MTCC is the construction of the harbor development project in Lhaimagu, Shaviyani Atoll, which has a cost exceeding USD 3.4 million adding however, the project has faced setbacks as changes to the design were requested by residents and the island council after its implementation. MTCC stated that ten changes were made to the harbor's design.
MTCC urged residents and councils to cooperate to expedite project development. They emphasised the importance of joint decision-making regarding project implementation before practical work begins. MTCC also expressed its commitment to completing developmental projects required by the islands promptly and efficiently, provided there is full cooperation from residents and councils to minimize unnecessary delays and expenses.