Minister of National Planning and Infrastructure Mohamed Aslam has revealed the new ferry system will be implemented after developing separate areas of the country as hubs, which will be completed by end of the year, expressing hope to practically boost the project next year. The planning minister made the remarks following an announcement from Kuwait Fund to fund the feasibility study and detailed plan of the project.
The government has decided to develop separate areas of Maldives as hubs depending on the population which will then be connected by a ferry system. During the Maldives Partnership Forum 2019, Ministry of National Planning and Infrastructure shared the project with the delegates, seeking funds for the project.
Speaking to PSM News regarding the project, Planning Minister Aslam said the government envisions to develop five regional hubs. In this context, he highlighted referring to the population, the hubs will be developed in Kulhudhuffushi in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Naifaru in Lhaviyani Atoll, Thinadhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Gan in Laamu Atoll and Male' City.
Furthermore, Minister Aslam added the development of hubs will benefit the neighbouring islands in terms of individual economy and development. He expressed the designing of the project is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Moreover, the minister revealed the project to connect Male', Villimale', Thilafushi and Gulhifalhu via bridges was also shared with the delegates, aiming to commence the project before the end of the year.
The aforementioned project is expected to cost USD 488 million. Many countries expressed interest in assisting Maldives during the partnership forum, according to planning minister.