Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has assumed full operational control of Malé’s North Harbour following a directive from the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, introducing new service conditions, including mandatory vessel registration and docking fees.

The transition, which transferred oversight of the remaining harbour area from Malé City Council to MPL, aims to improve efficiency and management of harbour operations. The change affects the section of the harbour located in front of the Malé Fish Market, a key area for fishing and local trade.

According to MPL, from 1 August, only vessels registered with the harbour will be permitted to access services at the expanded facility. From 1 September, docking services will be provided under a formal tariff structure aligned with existing North Harbour fees, excluding fishing vessels. 

The expansion project has significantly increased capacity at the harbour, now accommodating up to 54 vessels, including 20 designated spaces for fishing boats, compared to the previous capacity of 32. An additional waiting zone has been established, allowing up to 25 vessels to queue for available berths. This brings the harbour’s total operational capacity to 74 vessels.

MPL currently manages berth allocations through a queue system and provides essential services such as water and electricity to vessels. To further accommodate increasing demand, the company is planning to expand utility access and introduce fuel services at the harbour. MPL emphasised that these changes aim to improve organisation, promote fair use of harbour space, and better support the growing needs of the capital’s maritime traffic.