President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the Gulper shark fishery will reopen in November, under a comprehensive management plan.
He made these remarks while addressing the residents of Kulhudhuffushi City, as part of his ongoing tour of the inhabited islands of South Thiladhunmathi Atoll.
The President highlighted that Kulhudhuffushi City has a long history of Gulper shark fishery as a significant source of income, noting that the relevant authorities have begun revising existing regulations. He confirmed that the fishery would be reinstated under a renewed management strategy to ensure sustainability and regulatory compliance. In this regard, he urged fishermen to prepare for the resumption of Gulper shark fishing.
The President also outlined new initiatives in the tourism sector. He announced that opportunities would be opened for investors to develop a city hotel near the airport, strengthening regional hospitality infrastructure. In addition, he revealed plans to introduce tourism to the southern region of Thiladhunmathi Atoll, with Keylakunu earmarked as an eco-tourism destination.
The visit included the signing of key agreements for the development of Kulhudhuffushi City, ground-breaking ceremonies for upcoming projects, and the inauguration of several completed initiatives.
As part of his pledge to strengthen the import and storage of essential food items and construction materials, an agreement was signed for the expansion of the Kulhudhuffushi Commercial Port and the establishment of a bonded zone service. The President also inaugurated the newly upgraded harbour facilities.
In line with efforts to develop Kulhudhuffushi Airport, the foundation stone was laid for a new passenger terminal building to expand capacity and enhance services.
The ground was broken on a new Bank of Maldives Business Centre as well, aimed at improving access to banking services and financial infrastructure. The President further announced that construction of an Islamic Centre will begin next year.
Practical work also commenced on establishing a Waste and Resource Management Centre, underscoring the Government’s commitment to sustainable urban development. In addition, the third phase of the city’s road modernisation project was officially inaugurated, featuring the construction of dedicated racing roads as part of wider infrastructure upgrades.
Two significant housing agreements were signed during the meeting: one to resume the stalled development of 400 housing units, and another to initiate the construction of 2,000 new units. Of these, 1,300 will be built within a designated development zone, while the remaining 700 will be constructed on privately owned land.
Alongside the signing of the Kulhudhuffushi sports complex agreement this evening, the President announced the development of a dual-purpose ground for both football and handball. He added that construction of a synthetic track is scheduled to begin in December, and a beach handball stadium will be developed in preparation for next month’s Commonwealth Beach Handball Tournament.