President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to establishing a strong and integrated transport network across land, sea, and air as a cornerstone of improving public mobility, facilitating trade, and driving sustained national economic growth. The President made these remarks while delivering the Presidential Address at the first sitting of the first session of the 20th People’s Majlis for the year, outlining a comprehensive vision that places transport infrastructure at the heart of the Maldives’ long-term development agenda.
Emphasising the close link between transport infrastructure and the continued expansion of the tourism sector, the President stated that sustained investment in airport development, the expansion of both international and domestic air routes, and the establishment of resilient and reliable transport networks remain key national priorities. He noted that these initiatives not only strengthen connectivity for residents and visitors alike, but also form an integral part of the Government’s broader climate adaptation and resilience efforts, ensuring that infrastructure development is aligned with environmental sustainability and future climate realities.
Providing an update on the aviation sector, the President highlighted that multiple airport development and upgrade projects are currently underway across the country. He stated that improvements to existing airports have enabled all operational airports in the Maldives to facilitate night landings, with services now fully functional, significantly enhancing accessibility and operational flexibility. This advancement is expected to improve travel convenience, support emergency services, and enable more efficient scheduling for both domestic and international operations.
Under the Sustainable Development Policy, the President also announced the commencement of integrated air connectivity services using Twin Otter aircraft equipped with wheeled landing capabilities, which began on 1 February. These services connect the four southernmost atolls within the Integrated Development Zone, including Gan in Addu Atoll, Fuvahmulah City, and Huvadhu Atoll, strengthening regional integration and opening new opportunities for tourism, business, and social exchange. In parallel, as part of efforts to expand seaplane services for both the tourism sector and the general public, flights to N. Velidhoo commenced on 22 January, with plans in place to extend services to additional regions in the coming period.
The President further outlined ongoing harbour development projects across the country aimed at strengthening inter-island connectivity and improving the efficiency of maritime transport. He stressed that the long-term sustainability of sea transport depends on prioritising essential port and harbour infrastructure, which plays a critical role in supporting domestic trade, fisheries, tourism supply chains, and everyday mobility for island communities.
Addressing land transport, the President detailed initiatives to establish high-quality and sustainable road infrastructure nationwide. To accelerate road construction projects and reduce reliance on rented machinery, he announced that modern equipment and machinery will be procured for the Road Development Corporation by the end of April. This investment will significantly enhance the corporation’s capacity to implement projects simultaneously across multiple islands in a more cost-effective and timely manner. Additionally, the President assured that sand roads in islands with active local tourism will be upgraded with proper drainage systems, responding to community requests and improving accessibility, safety, and the overall visitor experience.
Together, these comprehensive measures underscore the Administration’s integrated approach to transport development, reinforcing the Maldives’ position as a well-connected island nation that supports inclusive growth, a resilient economy, and a dynamic tourism sector capable of meeting global expectations.
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