The land reclamation project in Makunudhoo, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, has been suspended after a fatal incident caused the death of two workers. The incident occurred on the afternoon of October 21 when a cylinder filled with argon gas used for welding exploded and killed two foreign workers.
Bigfish Maldives Private Limited began reclaiming land for the development of an airport in Makunudhoo in September. Makunudhoo Island Council stated that 17% of the reclamation had been completed but that the fieldwork was suspended due to the tragic incident. The council said the workers are distressed and anticipates the project to resume once emotions have settled.
The Ministry of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure awarded the contract to Bigfish Maldives on June 22. Makunudhoo Airport is to be developed with a 1,500m runway on land that will be reclaimed on the southern side of the island. The scope of the project includes the reclamation of 43 hectares of land along with 3,500m of revetment to protect the reclaimed land. The project was awarded to the company to be completed within a year at a cost of USD16 million.