President Dr Mohamed Muizzu said the Government is prioritising the development of a nationwide transport system that links air, sea and land routes, as part of efforts to improve connectivity, support commerce and strengthen economic activity.

Delivering the Presidential Address at the first sitting of the first session of the 20th People’s Majlis for 2026, the President outlined transport connectivity as a central pillar of the Administration’s development agenda, linking infrastructure investment to economic resilience and service delivery across the islands.

President Dr Muizzu said the Government is pursuing a coordinated approach to transport planning, noting that improvements in aviation, maritime services and road networks are being prioritised to strengthen national connectivity and support key sectors such as tourism and trade. The President added that transport development is also being aligned with climate adaptation objectives, given the country’s vulnerability to geographic and environmental challenges.

On aviation, the President said multiple airport development projects are currently in progress, with upgrades enabling all operational airports to facilitate night landings. He said this has expanded operational capacity and improved reliability for domestic and international travel. The President also noted that new integrated air connectivity services began earlier this month, linking the southern atolls through scheduled Twin Otter operations, while seaplane services have been expanded to include public transport routes, with services to Noonu Velidhoo launched in January and further regional routes planned.

Providing updates on maritime transport, the President said harbour development projects are ongoing across several islands, with a focus on strengthening essential port infrastructure to improve inter-island connectivity and ensure the sustainability of sea transport services.

Furthermore, the President said steps are being taken to accelerate road development projects nationwide. He announced that new equipment and machinery will be procured for the Road Development Corporation by the end of April, aimed at reducing project delays and lowering costs associated with machinery rental.

The President added that road upgrades will also include improved drainage systems on sand roads in islands with active local tourism, following requests from residents to improve accessibility and reduce flooding-related disruptions.