An additional dredger has been mobilised to expedite the land reclamation process for the development of Makunudhoo Airport, in Haa Dhaalu Atoll.
Speaking to PSM News, President of the Makunudhoo Island Council Auzam Adam said that the airport development is proceeding as per the schedule. As such, he said that an additional dredger has been brought to the site for the ongoing reclamation operations.
The airport development project was awarded to Bigfish Maldives Private Limited on June 22, 2023. The project has been subject to discussions between the Makunudhoo Island Council and Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Dr. Abdulla Muththalib.
During the meeting, Auzam said that the primary focus of the discussions was the expansion of the airport's runway. He said that the council proposed an extension to 1,800m from the originally planned 1,500m. He also said that the minister approved the proposal, and discussions will be held with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu for the necessary changes.
Additionally, Auzam emphasized that the aim of the runway expansion is to transform the airport into an international airport, aligning with broader plans for significant tourism projects in the area. He said that the additional costs associated with the runway extension have been communicated to the dredging contractor.
Furthermore, Auzam said that residents requested the relocation of the airport project to the nearby uninhabited island, Fenbo Huraa. He, however, said that such a move would necessitate substantial modifications and cause project delays. As such, he said that the government opted to proceed with the existing plan. He also said that the contractor has assured the completion of dredging operations within the next six months. He, however, said that the construction contract for Makunudhoo Airport has not yet been awarded to a specific company.