The much-anticipated harbour development project in Eydhafushi, the capital of Baa Atoll, has reached 54 percent completion, the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has confirmed.
The harbour, which serves as a critical commercial hub for the atoll, accommodates numerous vessels travelling to and from neighbouring islands. Due to increased developmental activities on the island, demand for the harbour facilities has grown substantially, leading to congestion issues that the upgrade aims to address.
According to MTCC, capping concrete works are currently underway as part of the project. The scope of development includes 28,304 cubic meters of land reclamation, 3,354 cubic meters of channel dredging, 402 meters of inner embankment construction, 170 meters of outer embankment, and 383 meters of rivetment installation.
The project also encompasses the construction of an 11-meter by 11-meter ramp, an 18-meter wide pier, pavement works spanning 1,814 square meters, port lighting, and a mooring system. The total investment for the project stands at USD 4.2 million.
The original harbour in Eydhafushi was established in 1995 and was recognised as the largest harbour ever constructed on an island in the Maldives at the time. However, decades of growth and increased maritime activity have necessitated the current expansion efforts to meet the evolving needs of the atoll's residents and economic activity.