The Government has commenced construction of a new harbour in Vaavu Fulidhoo, one of the few inhabited islands in the Maldives without such a facility.

The project was officially launched by Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, Dr Abdulla Muththalib, in the presence of the President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on 19 September. Senior officials, including the Managing Director of Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), Ahmed Saudee, and members of the Fulidhoo Island Council, was also in attendance.

With a population of just over 500 residents, Fulidhoo has long faced difficulties due to the absence of a functional harbour. Locals have voiced concerns for years over challenges in unloading goods, ferrying passengers, and ensuring reliable access to the island, which is also a noted tourist destination in Vaavu Atoll.

According to MTCC, the project will include dredging and excavation of 79,933 cubic metres, construction of a 300-metre breakwater, a 439-metre revetment, and a 174-metre geotube revetment. Additional works comprise a 25-metre groyne, a 77-metre outer sea wall, a 1,450-square-metre paved area, a 6-metre-long, 40-metre-wide concrete bridge, and the installation of harbour lights.

The harbour project has been contracted to MTCC at a value of MVR 463.46 million. Officials confirmed that once completed, the facility will significantly improve access for supply vessels and passenger transport, and support local economic growth.