Health infrastructure projects currently assigned to the Road Development Corporation (RDC) are being transferred to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), with the change expected to accelerate progress, Minister of Health, Family and Welfare, Geela Ali has said.
The minister made the remarks while responding to questions raised by residents of Ihavandhoo in Haa Alifu Atoll and Meedhoo in Raa Atoll through the Ahaa Forum regarding hospital projects planned for the two islands.
Ihavandhoo is set to receive a 30-bed Level one hospital. Minister Geela said the project was awarded to RDC in 2025, but progress had been slower than expected. She said the government had decided to transfer several projects previously assigned to RDC to MTCC.
The minister attributed the delays to several factors, including difficulties in obtaining supplies due to the conflict in the Middle East. She said arrangements were now under way to transfer the Ihavandhoo hospital project to MTCC to facilitate its progress.
A new 30-bed hospital is also planned for Meedhoo, with completion expected by November next year, according to the minister. The project is likewise being implemented under RDC.
“Many health infrastructure development projects were assigned to RDC. However, work is now under way to transfer these projects to MTCC, which will also help accelerate progress,” Minister Geela said.
Ihavandhoo is one of the most populous islands in Haa Alifu Atoll and an important hub for development in the northern region. The government says the new hospital will provide more spacious facilities and a comprehensive range of healthcare services.
A budget of more than USD 7.98 million has been allocated for the 30-bed hospital in Ihavandhoo. The development will include accommodation facilities and additional buildings required to provide other services.
The hospital planned for Meedhoo will be a fully fledged facility, with infrastructure including inpatient wards, an operating theatre and a labour room.
Healthcare services are currently provided through a health centre in Meedhoo, which operates around the clock.