Hoarafushi Island Council has introduced an airport bus service for the convenience of air travellers.
At a ceremony held in Hoarafushi, Haa Alifu Atoll, the service was inaugurated by Minister of National Planning, Housing and Infrastructure Mohamed Aslam and Adam Azim, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). The first trip was made by the guests attending the asphalt laying project inauguration ceremony held in Hoarafushi.
Hoarafushi Island Council has brought a 25-seater bus to provide bus services in Hoarafushi. President of Hoarafushi Island Council Mohamed Waheed said the bus service was launched between the airport and the island to solve the transportation problem faced by travellers. He said travellers complain about the difficulty of getting taxis between the airport and the island, noting bus services will solve such issues. He mentioned efforts are underway to formulate a policy to charge for the bus services. He also highlighted that airport development has resulted in major benefits to the island, adding the number of people interested in guesthouse businesses has also increased compared to the past.
Hoarafushi Island Council is currently working to compile a plan for the development of the island. The island council has enabled ice supply for fishermen by establishing an ice plant on the island. The council is also working to develop a bottling plant for the sale of glass bottled water. Also, MTCC has decided to construct an international preschool as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR).