Throughout the years Maldivians have been facing a lot of difficulties in transportation, mostly in the islands. Previous administrations pledged solutions for these issues but failed to deliver results.
However, upon taking office, President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom addressed and delivered solutions to the issue of transportation. During the 4 years that has passed in his tenure, President Abdulla Yameen has implemented several projects to boost the transportation sector of Maldives.
Under his leadership, the main airport of Maldives, Velana International Airport (VIA), has become an internationally renowned airport. The President has announced plans to develop other domestic airports as well.
Some of the latest projects of his manifesto include, the development of airports in Kaashidhoo of Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Funadhoo of Shaviyani Atoll, Maavaarulu of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll and Nilandhoo of Faafu Atoll. The main objective of President Abdulla Yameen is to provide the best transportation facilities to the residents, via the development of these airports.
Work is currently underway to develop airports at Kulhudhuhfushi of Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Funadhoo of Shaviyani Atoll, Maavaarulu of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll and Maafaru of Noonu Atoll.
The airport being developed at Maafaru island of Noonu atoll is funded by the UAE. The government expects Maafaru Airport, which will have a 2,200 metre runway, to be completed next month. Apassenger terminal, a VIP terminal and jet parking facilities will be integrated into the airport design as part of the project.
Meanwhile, the development of airports at Kulhudhuhfushi of Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Funadhoo of Shaviyani Atoll and Maavaarulu of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll have been contracted to Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). 9 hectors of land have been reclaimed for the development of the airport at Kulhudhuhfushi. A 1,200 metre long runway will be developed as part of the project.
21 hectors of land has been reclaimed for the development of the airport at Funadhoo, according to MTCC. The subgrade preparation for the construction of the 1,200 metre runway to be developed at the airport is almost complete and that work is progressing on schedule. MTCC stated the sub grading is also underway at the airport being developed on Maavaarulu. MTCC forecasts the construction of airports at Maavaarulu, Kulhudhuhfushi and Funadhoo will be completed by August.
The government has also contracted Island Aviation Services Limited to develop an airport at Fainu of Raa Atoll. The mega project includes the development of a city hotel.
Other projects in the pipeline include, the development of airports in Hoarafushi of Haa Alifu Atoll and Faresmaathodaa of Gaaafu Dhaalu Atoll.
With the completion of the airport development projects, the administration would have taken measures to ease the transportation woes of the Maldivian citizens.