The 30-tonne ice plant and 50-tonne ice storage facility developed in Bandidhoo, Dhaalu Atoll, by the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) have been officially inaugurated.
The facility was inaugurated by the Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam, at a special ceremony held in Bandidhoo on Wednesday.
The government is establishing ice plants across the country to improve fishermen’s access to ice. The Bandidhoo ice plant is part of the government's ongoing project to set up ice plants on 11 islands.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Minister Shiyam said the Bandidhoo ice plant was completed and made operational in record time. He noted that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has been making extensive efforts to effectively address key challenges in the fisheries sector, particularly ensuring easy access to ice for fishermen.
Minister Shiyam said that most of the ice plants already established across the Maldives were not operational when the current administration took office. He said the ice plants have since been restored and brought back into operation after their management was handed over to MIFCO.
"MIFCO is also swiftly completing the stalled ice plant projects and new facilities. They are working hard to meet the various needs of fishermen,” the Minister said.
Speaking at the ceremony, MIFCO’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Farhath Shaheer said the company will ensure strict monitoring and inspection of all ice plants under its management. He noted that the establishment of the ice plants will allow fishermen engaged in various types of fisheries to keep their catch fresh.
"All types of fishermen will be able to deliver their fish while maintaining freshness. My wish is that the fish transported to other destinations, such as resorts, are kept fresh using ice produced from our plants,” he said.
The establishment of new ice plants forms part of a key pledge by the President. The ice plants opened in Bandidhoo and earlier the same day in Meedhoo are expected to greatly benefit and bring convenience to the fishermen in the region, according to the Fisheries Ministry.