Malaysian company awarded US$57.5m project to build five airports
Developing an airport on the northern island of Kulhudhufushi is a campaign pledge of President Abdulla Yameen. But environmentalists have previously warned that it would destroy the island’s environmentally sensitive wetland area.
07 Mar 2017, 9:00 AM
The government has awarded a US$57.5 million project to Malaysia’s Gryphon Energy Corporation to build five domestic airports in four atolls.
The regional airports are to be developed on the islands of Kulhudhufushi in Haa Dhaal atoll, Funadhoo in Shaviyani atoll, Nilandhoo in Faafu atoll, and Maavarulu and Faresmaathoda in Gaaf Dhaal atoll.
Tourism Minister Moosa Zameer told the press after the signing ceremony Tuesday morning that new regional airports will be needed when the expansion of the Velana International Airport to cater to more than seven million passengers a year is complete.
“Based on the increase of passengers along with that we want to connect the atolls and Malé. We now have difficulties sending people from Malé to the atolls,” he told reporters.
Become a member
Get full access to our archive and personalise your experience.
Already a member?
Discussion
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!
No comments yet. Be the first to join the conversation!
Join the Conversation
Sign in to share your thoughts under an alias and take part in the discussion. Independent journalism thrives on open, respectful debate — your voice matters.
