The government will commence supplying fuel to fishermen in four islands across the country at the same rates offered by the State Trading Organization (STO) in Malé City, starting Tuesday, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced. This announcement was made during his address to the residential community of Gaafaru on Monday. The President's visit to Gaafaru was part of his ongoing two-day tour of several islands in the Alifu Alifu and Kaafu Atolls.
In an effort to supply fuel to fishermen in the islands at the same rates offered by STO in Malé, the President Dr Muizzu administration initiated a project on 7 November to develop fuel storage facilities in every atoll.
President Dr. Muizzu stated that the initial plan was to develop fuel storage facilities in each atoll every month over the next year. Work has been progressing ahead of schedule, and the government is now ready to commence the supply of fuel to fishermen from four islands starting Tuesday, he revealed.
The islands are Himmafushi in Kaafu Atoll, Kooddoo in Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Felivaru in Lhaviyani Atoll, and Hulhumeedhoo in Addu City.
"Starting tomorrow, fishermen can purchase fuel at STO rates from the FSM sites in Himmafushi, Kooddoo, Felivaru, and Addu City Hulhumeedhoo. Additionally, we are making arrangements to provide fuel to fishermen at STO rates from MIFCO [Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company Ltd.] vessels near Kooddoo and Felivaru," he said.
Highlighting these developments, President Dr Muizzu underscored the importance his administration places on completing the development of the fuel storage facilities. The administration also prioritises providing fuel to fishermen from the most suitable locations, he added.
Recognising fuel as a basic necessity, President Dr Muizzu pledged to provide petrol and diesel from one island in each atoll at the same rates offered by STO in Malé. As part of this initiative, the administration aims to facilitate easier access to petrol and diesel for both fishermen and the public.
STO is overseeing the implementation of the project. This initiative, which involves the development of fuel storage facilities across 19 islands, is projected to be completed by February 2026.