Minister of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure Mohamed Aslam has stated true decentralisation cannot be achieved without a strong, efficient transport network.
The planning minister made the remarks while speaking at the ceremony held to sign the agreement for the establishment of the Integrated National Public Ferry Network. The project has been contracted to Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC).
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister Aslam said one of the major obstacles faced in implementing the government’s decentralization policies is the lack of an efficient transport network across the Maldives. Minister Aslam said establishment of a public ferry network is a necessity to implement national development plans, despite the large cost associated with the operations of such a ferry network. He noted the government had planned to launch the public ferry network project last year and included USD 6.5 million in the State Budget for the project, although the project had to be delayed due to COVID-19.
Speaking further, the minister revealed the ferries to be used in the national public ferry network have been designed, and the cost of operations and revenue have been estimated. He added the target is to ensure the network is reliable and convenient for the public.
Phase 1 of the Integrated National Public Ferry Network will be inaugurated in September. During the first phase, the service will be launched in Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu and Shaviyani Atoll. Phase 1 of the project is expected to cost USD 10 million.
The planning ministry stated establishment of the ferry network across the whole country will cost about USD 55 million.