Minister of Defence Mariya Ahmed Didi has revealed the sea ambulances currently in use across the country are old models the government acquired in 2015. She made the statement at the Parliament after being asked to clarify when the old sea ambulances stationed at Alifu Alifu Atoll Hospital can be replaced.
Responding to the question, Minister Mariya said the biggest challenge in providing sea ambulance services is the large amount of maintenance that is needed for the vessels. She said Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) received old vessel models to be used for sea ambulance services in 2015.
The minister detailed some of the vessels had been in use for at least 10 years while others had been worn out due to lack of use and maintenance at the time MNDF received them. She also said there have been many difficulties in keeping the sea ambulances in service, with many incidents of the vessels being grounded or needing repair.
Minister Mariya noted the current budget restrictions and economic situation and said the sea ambulances at Alifu Alifu Atoll Hospital can only be replaced once MNDF received the necessary funds. She added that a new sea ambulance can be stationed in Rasdhoo, Alifu Alifu Atoll, within six months.
Furthermore, Minister Mariya said efforts are underway to acquire new sea ambulances in order to alleviate the financial burden of the maintenance and repair required to keep the current vessels in operation.