Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources has revealed that the necessary preparations to launch the project of establishing ice plants in additional 11 islands have been completed. The project was initiated aiming to resolve the challenges fishing boats face to obtain ice.
The ministry disclosed that the islands in which ice plants will be established are as follows: Dhidhdhoo from Haa Alif Atoll, Kulhudhuffushi City, Funadhoo and Komandoo from Shaviyani Atoll, Naifaru from Lhaviyani Atoll, Rasdhoo from Alif Alif Atoll, Veyvah from Meemu Atoll, Bandidhoo and Meedhoo from Dhaalu Atoll and Rathafandhoo from Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. While arrangements have been made for Saudi Fund for Development to cover finances for five ice plants, the remianing six ice plants will be established under the government's budget.
Furthermore, the ministry unveiled that the project was entrusted to the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO). While the project is to commence, the ministry stated that efforts are underway by the ministry in collaboration with MIFCO, to resolve major obstacles faced by ice plant services already launched. While a total of 25 ice plants have been established in various islands, the introduction of additional 11 ice plants will significantly increase the capacity of the ice plant networks.
The ministry further revealed efforts to change the ice plants operating under Fenaka Corporation Limited to operate under MIFCO.