Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Dr Abdulla Muththalib has said that the shortage of boulders affecting infrastructure projects across the Maldives is expected to be resolved by the end of this month. 

Responding to questions in Parliament, Minister Dr Muththalib said several development projects have been temporarily delayed due to difficulties in obtaining boulders.

He said many of the stalled projects are expected to progress rapidly once supplies resume, adding that the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has assured the Government that boulder shipments will arrive without further delay from the end of this month.

The minister had previously explained that the Maldives traditionally imports boulders from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), but ongoing conflict in the Middle East disrupted supply chains and delayed shipments.

He added that the Government has since been seeking alternative sources for construction materials. As part of these efforts, India has agreed to supply boulders and gravel to the Maldives at preferential prices to help support ongoing infrastructure projects.