Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has stated that any changes to Malé North Harbour will be made in consultation with the fishermen who regularly use the facility.

The company took over management of the commercial port and North Harbour in June and now oversees operations in the fish market area and surrounding market crossroads.

Following the recent expansion of Malé North Harbour, MPL is working to introduce new services to better support fishermen and other harbour users. The company has already begun engaging with fishermen to gather feedback and incorporate their input into upcoming changes.

Speaking at the first meeting with fishermen, MPL CEO Mohamed Rishwan said the company is committed to working closely with the fishing community to address ongoing issues at the harbour. He noted that MPL is in the process of establishing essential services, including access to water, electricity, ice, and fuel. Rishwan added that these services are being introduced to facilitate the work of fishermen and improve overall conditions at the harbour.

Rishwan also stated that while space constraints at the North Harbour are expected to be fully resolved by 2027, MPL is working to introduce interim solutions to alleviate congestion. He said the company is prioritising service delivery in the short term, with the longer-term objective of expanding available space and improving infrastructure.

MPL Deputy CEO Mohamed Mueen added that the process of implementing changes to the fishermen’s area will begin soon and will be guided by feedback received during consultations. He emphasised that the redevelopment plan is being tailored according to the needs and preferences of the fishermen, and that the most important component of the project will focus on improving their working environment.

As part of its ongoing plans, MPL announced that two designated spaces in Zone H will be allocated for island-based fishing vessels. The company also stated that foreign parties will not be permitted to conduct business within the North Harbour, and action will be taken against those found importing goods into restricted areas.

In addition, MPL recently confirmed that ice will be supplied directly from the harbour at affordable rates, and fuel will be provided at minimal cost. The company clarified that the fuel service is intended to support fishermen and is not a commercial venture.

The recent expansion has significantly increased the harbour’s capacity. Malé North Harbour can now accommodate up to 54 vessels, including 20 dedicated berths for fishing boats, compared to the previous total of 32. A new waiting zone has also been introduced, allowing up to 25 vessels to queue for berths, bringing the total operational capacity to 74 vessels.

MPL has also recently announced that a docking fee will be introduced in September for vessels berthing near the fish market. However, fishing vessels will be exempt from this charge.