Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has begun delivering ambulances to 56 islands, as part of the Government initiative to establish sustainable ambulance services across the country.

According to MPL, the ambulances were handed over by the Ministry of Health on 18 January and delivery to islands is now underway. The rollout is being carried out under a project valued at MVR 65.3 million, awarded to MPL under the 2025 Contractor Finance Policy.

The initiative follows concerns raised by island communities over limited access to emergency transport services during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's visits to inhabited islands, leading to the development of a policy framework aimed at ensuring long-term and reliable emergency care nationwide.

The Ministry of Health said the ambulances will be deployed to hospitals and health centres across the 56 islands, replacing ageing and unserviceable vehicles currently in use. The vehicles were brought to Malé and now being distributed to the atolls. MPL said deliveries are expected to be completed by the end of the month.

Health Minister Abdulla Nazim formally handed over the ambulances to representatives of atoll hospitals and health centres at a ceremony held at the Ministry of Health. The ministry said the upgrade will improve emergency response times and strengthen frontline healthcare services in island communities.

MPL confirmed it has been commissioned by the Ministry of Health to manage delivery logistics. The Ministry has also announced plans to expand ambulance services further this year, with 31 additional islands set to receive ambulances, along with 10 paramedic ambulances allocated for the Greater Malé Region and major cities.