The first phase of a new Integrated Logistics Terminal project has been completed in the industrial island, Thilafushi, Kaafu Atoll, paving the way for a major expansion of container handling capacity.
The state-owned Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) was the contractor for the initial phase, which addresses long-standing congestion issues at the Malé Commercial Harbour and Hulhumalé International Terminal.
The completed first phase involved crucial groundwork, including the construction of a 60-meter inner breakwater and an additional 15-meter quay wall, as well as the leveling of the project site. These infrastructure developments are a significant step toward establishing the new terminal's 2,000-container capacity container depot, which is being developed in two phases.
The new terminal is being developed to offer a permanent solution to the limited space at existing ports. Once MTCC's foundational work is complete, Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) will take over to install the necessary workshops, office buildings, and lighting infrastructure at the Thilafushi site.
The project's phased approach includes the eventual relocation of operations from the Malé Commercial Harbour to Thilafushi. This will allow the current Hulhumalé port to be converted into a transshipment port. The relocation of the North Harbour and T-Jetty facilities in Male’ is also planned.
Officials have stated that the completion of both phases of the terminal will streamline cargo clearance and resolve the chronic space constraints that have affected the Malé and Hulhumalé ports for years. Full relocation of operations to the new facility is expected to be finalised within the next two years.