Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) and Ihavandhoo Island Council have formalised an agreement to establish a new dockyard on the island.

Under the agreement, Ihavandhoo Council has allocated 100,000 square feet of land for the project, which is set to begin early next year. The signing ceremony saw MPL CEO Mohamed Wajeeh Ibrahim represent the company, while Ihavandhoo Council President Ahmed Sabah signed on behalf of the council.

Wajeeh outlined the introduction of bunkering services by the current Government and the strategic importance of the dockyard, citing increasing requests from foreign vessels for technical support while passing through Maldivian waters. He noted that the new facility would offer vital repair and maintenance services to address these demands.

He also highlighted that Ihavandhoo, known as a hub for fishing activity, has seen repeated calls from fishermen for proper docking facilities and that the project is expected to provide a much-needed solution to meet these demands.

MPL has set an ambitious timeline, aiming to complete construction within six months and commence operations shortly thereafter.