The practical works of the road development project in Gaafu Dhaalu Faresmaathodaa have officially commenced.

The project was formally inaugurated by Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef at a special ceremony held at the island on Saturday. 

The event was attended by State Minister for Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Ismail Hameed, Deputy Managing Director of the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) Mohamed Jamsheed, members of Parliament, the Island Council President, council members, and representatives of the Women’s Development Committee.

The project, awarded to the MTCC, includes asphalt paving of the island’s main roads, establishment of a proper drainage system, and installation of street lighting.

MTCC described the initiative as a key development project long awaited by residents, noting its importance in supporting both social and economic progress on the island.

The Government has stated that while efforts are ongoing to modernise road infrastructure across islands, it will not impose uniform asphalt paving in all islands. Instead, in islands where local tourism is prominent, sand roads may be maintained, while necessary resources such as vehicles and equipment will be provided to councils to address challenges like flooding and road maintenance. The Government added that such support would enable councils to resolve issues in line with the needs of their communities.