Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has decided to resume the development of the Male' Industrial Village in adherence to prior plans by the previous government.
Speaking to PSM News, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MPL Mohamed Wajeeh Ibrahim, disclosed discussions with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu regarding the resumption of the project. He noted that during the previous administration, the land had been subdivided among different entities and assured that steps were being taken to swiftly clean up the industrial village, aligning with government directives.
Additionally, Wajeeh conveyed that funding arrangements and contractor selection were in progress, with the previous contractor from 2018 expressing readiness to contribute to the reinstatement of the project.
The inception of the industrial zone in Male' City dates back to 2016, when President Dr. Muizzu served as the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure. To date, approximately 4.5 hectares of land have been reclaimed from the city's western side for the purpose.
Under the previous government, discussions between the government and MPL had centered on erecting prefabricated structures on the site for lease. However, progress halted following the change in government in 2018, leading to underutilisation of the area.
Presently, the industrial village accommodates Waste Management Corporation Limited (WAMCO) waste management facilities, a fuel depot, and the State Trading Organisation (STO) Ready Mix Plant. The site has also transformed into a dumping ground, littered with abandoned vehicles and furniture. Despite initial plans, no substantive efforts were made to advance the industrial village.