Acknowledging the geographic dispersion of the Maldivian archipelago, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has emphasised the strategic necessity of establishing an airport on HDh. Makunudhoo, citing persistent travel difficulties and limited accessibility.
The President conveyed these remarks during an official engagement with the residents of HDh. Makunudhoo earlier today, as part of his ongoing visit to the inhabited islands of South Thiladhunmathi Atoll.
The President affirmed that the development of an airport in HDh. Makunudhoo is a key element of the national sustainable development agenda. He highlighted its potential to strengthen regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth, describing the airport as a vital gateway for advancing the island’s prosperity.
Several development initiatives were endorsed during the meeting, including agreements on land reclamation in HDh. Makunudhoo, a coastal protection programme, the construction of an airport, and the development of the island’s road infrastructure.
In highlighting these initiatives, the President stated that MTCC would secure adequate land to meet the island’s development requirements, including the construction of a 1,800-meter runway at HDh. Makunudhoo, enhancement of airport infrastructure, and provision for residential needs among others. He further noted that twenty-two hectares of land would be allocated for the development of the island.
The President further stated that the responsibility for operating the HDh. Makunudhoo Airport will be entrusted to Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL).
Referring to the initiative to strengthen healthcare services in HDh. Makunudhoo, the President announced that the island’s health centre is being elevated to a Level-6 facility, the highest classification within the national healthcare system. He noted that, as infrastructure and resources are expanded, the centre will be equipped to provide specialised services in women’s health, paediatrics, and internal medicine, alongside diagnostic capabilities such as X-ray imaging and dialysis treatment.
The President further affirmed that all projects initiated and signed in HDh. Makunudhoo today will be subject to close oversight and expedited implementation, with the highest level of priority accorded to their execution.
Additionally, today’s ceremony marked the inauguration of the passport issuance service in HDh. Makunudhoo, representing a significant advancement in public service delivery for the island’s residents.
