Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has demolished the old jetty in Mandhoo, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, to pave the way for the construction of a harbour.
MTCC demolished the old jetty and removed all the waste materials from the area as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative. The jetty had been in use for a number of years in Mandhoo and became unusable, forcing residents to use a small jetty built by a local guesthouse business.
Speaking to PSM News, President of Mandhoo Council Mohamed Saeed said that the old jetty became too dangerous to be used by residents five years ago. He noted that the jetty had been severely damaged by the time MTCC demolished it as part of its CSR. He applauded the state-owned company for its work.
Mandhoo has a population of 500 residents and is one of the few islands that does not have a harbour. Residents of Mandhoo have expressed concern over the lack of a harbour, as it prevents the development of its local businesses and socioeconomic situation.
MTCC was contracted to develop a harbour on the island in 2019 at a cost of USD2.2 million. However, the fieldwork was delayed due to issues in assigning the project site. The project resumed in December 2021 and is expected to be completed in mid-2023. The development of a harbour is expected to significantly improve the socioeconomic prospects of Mandhoo.