The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has commenced the practical work of land dredging for the development of an airport in Guraidhoo, Thaa Atoll.
The development of an airport in Guraidhoo is a presidential pledge of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. MTCC was awarded the contract to dredge the land required for the airport on 16 November, 2024.
With a population of 2,272 residents, Guraidhoo is frequently visited by the people of Thaa Atoll for trade purposes. The residents of the island are engaged in fishing, agriculture, weaving and tourism to earn their living. The island is a regional trade hub, with several shops and various types of business activities conducted on the island. The development of an airport on the island has been a long-held aspiration of the island’s residents for many years, and is expected to increase accessibility and boost local tourism.
The opening an airport in Guraidhoo is expected to benefit to the entirety of Thaa Atoll, bringing economic and social benefits and eases. The government believes that the airport will further develop tourism in the area and bring about positive changes in the lives of the people.
The dredging project also includes land reclamation and beach protection. According to MTCC, the scope of the project includes dredging of 13.80 hectares of land, the installation of 979 metres of revetment, and 609 metres of geo bag revetment. The project is valued at USD 6.8 million.