The survey work of Laamu Integrated Maritime Hub Project has begun.
Agreements related to the Laamu Integrated Maritime Hub Project have been signed with a Chinese company, CAMC Engineering Company Limited, aiming to accomplish the commitments made by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Concurrently, Maldives Post Limited tasked the Chinese firm with the project on April 11.
Furthermore, MPL and CAMC Engineering Company Limited have initiated the survey work in collaboration, as two teams representing both companies visited Gaadhoo in Laamu Atoll, where the hub is to be established. The initial survey for the project concept involved input from seven experts from CAMC, with additional contributions from MPL'S technical team.
MPL conveyed the project is to be catered according to environmental standards and in a way that conserves the natural beauty of the island, given Gaadhoo's status as a major turtle breeding ground. It further emphasised that the concept of the project will be commenced following technical advice and guidance from Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy and Environmental protection agency. Therefore, as part of the project, turtle breeding will be preserved along with conservation and rehabilitation centres.
Outlined within the agreement are details of six subprojects:
Launching offshore bunkering services
Developing a cruise terminal
Establishing a super yacht marina
Developing Gaadhoo as an Eco-resort
Establishing a facility to store regionally produced food items
Building a transshipment port
Additionally, Gaadhoo has been identified as a prime location for maritime services, yet there have been no prior efforts to develop such services in the area. Notably, the project is among the top priorities promised by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu within the first 100 days of assuming office.
Moreover, MPL emphasised that the maritime hub will offer sustainable income opportunities for the residents of Laamu Atoll, while also rejuvenating tourism industry in the area, thereby generating more jobs and fostering new business opportunities.