The Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure has reported that 31 per cent of the harbour upgrade project in Haa Dhaalu Neykurendhoo has been completed.

The project, awarded to Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) in October 2022, involves the design and construction of a new harbour to improve access to the island. Although the contract set a one-year deadline, physical work only began in August 2023.

The Ministry’s update comes amid growing concerns from residents about the slow pace of progress of the project. Speaking to local media, the Neykurendhoo Island Council said the unfinished harbour continues to make travel difficult, especially for those relying on the RTL ferry service. “There are currently only two boats operating between Neykurendhoo and Malé, and there is no space to dock an additional vessel,” a council representative said.

The total contract value for the harbour development stands at MVR 48.6 million. The project scope includes dredging and excavation of 31,087 cubic metres, construction of a 290 metre breakwater and a 76 metre channel breakwater, 166 metres of revetment, and a 212 metre quay wall.

Other components of the project include construction of a ramp and access platform, pavement and drainage works, and installation of harbour lights, navigational lights, and mooring buoys.