Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has commenced efforts to resolve the difficulties faced due to the poor condition of the harbour in Manadhoo, Noonu Atoll.
President of Manadhoo Island Council Abdul Rahman Sabeeh revealed vessels are in danger when entering and harbouring at the island due to the poor condition of the harbour.
Manadhoo has a registered population of 2,000. However, the population of the island exceeds 3,000 with people migrating to the island for various purposes. Manadhoo, which has a wide range of public services established, has a large number of people visiting the island each day. The harbour is one of the most challenging ports to use during bad weather, according to the residents and visitors.
Due to the concerns, the council submitted the harbour issue to the government, following which work has commenced making the necessary changes to the harbour which is 1,200 feet long and 350 feet wide. As part of the project, the entrance to the harbor will be demolished in the current location and transferred to the west side of the harbour. The project also includes harbour dredging in an area of 29,000 cubic metres, revetment in an area of 195 metres and revetment in an area of 188 metres, construction of a concrete bridge, ramping, and installation of exit lights to cater to barge and landing craft.
The government has allocated a budget of USD 1.87 million for the harbour renovation and development project in Manadhoo.