President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has revealed difficulties in the entry and exit of vessels will be solved in all the islands by developing suitable harbours by the end of his presidential term. He made the statement at the inauguration ceremony of the harbour developed in Veyvah, Meemu Atoll.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Solih noted residents in Veyvah are also challenged by problems faced by the islands that are less populated. The president said essential services such as water and sewerage, electricity, health services, and education are needed in Veyvah despite the small population. Many of such projects in these sectors have been implemented within about four years, he said.
The long-standing problem facing the people of Veyvah is the lack of a harbour. Popular income-generating activities on the island include preparing dried fish for export. President Solih said preparing 25 tonnes of fish per day is a noteworthy effort for a small community like Veyvah. He said for a remarkable work as such, a modern harbour is crucial, assuring the new harbour developed can be used for many years.
Furthermore, President Solih mentioned that all projects in Veyvah will be proceeding as planned, requesting the public to cooperate with the government. He revealed the previous government spent about USD130,300 for the development of Veyvah, although the current administration has spent USD6.51 million in four years.
Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) was tasked to develop a harbour in Veyvah in August 2019. The project consisted of dredging and excavation operations of 66,831cbm, construction of a 350m breakwater, a 35m revetment, a 380m quay wall, 1,880sqm of paved area and installation of streetlights. The value of the project is USD3.17 million.
In conclusion, President Solih noted that MTCC is working on 115 projects, including harbour and coastal protection, and that projects on 38 islands have been completed so far.