A major MVR 150 million project has commenced to further develop and expand services at the Addu Equatorial Hospital (AEH).

Speaking to State media, AEH Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ahmed Adeel Naseer, said the hospital is implementing the project in phases to improve both its infrastructure and the quality of healthcare services provided to patients.

One of the key components of the expansion is the construction of 10 private rooms in a new three-storey building. The project, estimated to cost MVR 50 million, is being financed with assistance from the Bank of Maldives (BML). Dr Adeel said the land required for the project is expected to be handed over to the contractor within the next few days.

He added that the hospital has also approved a MVR 20 million initiative to upgrade its existing executive rooms to international standards.

As part of efforts to strengthen specialised healthcare services, AEH is working to introduce a hyperbaric chamber for the treatment of diving-related incidents. The hospital is also recruiting additional staff to expand therapeutic and treatment services.

Dr Adeel said the expansion reflects broader efforts to improve healthcare services in the southern region and reduce the need for patients to travel to Malé for specialised treatment.