The physical works for the modern road development project in HA. Filladhoo were officially inaugurated today. This initiative by the government aims to enhance the island’s transportation infrastructure and provide a more convenient environment for its residents. The project was contracted to the Road Development Corporation (RDC) on August 10, last year, with a completion mandate of two years. According to the Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure, the total cost of this project is estimated at MVR 77.1 million.
The project was officially launched during a special ceremony in Filladhoo by the Member of Parliament for the Kelaa constituency, Abdullah Shareef. The ceremony was also attended by the Managing Director of RDC, Ibrahim Nazim, and the President of the Filladhoo Island Council, Fathuhulla Hassan. The scope of the project includes the asphalt paving of major roads, the installation of an efficient drainage system, and the setting up of street lighting. This long-awaited project is considered vital for the island’s social and economic progress. Speaking at the event, Council President Fathuhulla Hassan highlighted that the commencement of road construction is a significant milestone for the island’s development. He further expressed hope that the project would provide a permanent solution to the perennial flooding issues faced during the rainy season.
The government continues to outsource road development projects across various islands to specialized companies. In this regard, RDC has been tasked with the third phase of the Kulhudhuffushi City road project, as well as the development of modern roads in 11 islands across seven atolls. These include K. Kaashidhoo, Th. Omadhoo, Th. Veymandoo, L. Maamendhoo, Th. Kandoodhoo, Th. Vilufushi, and Hdh. Kumundhoo and Makunudhoo. While the government is committed to modernizing infrastructure, it has stated that asphalt paving will not be imposed on any island against the residents’ wishes.
Instead, the government noted that some councils, particularly in islands with flourishing local tourism, prefer to maintain sand roads. In such cases, councils have requested machinery and equipment for road maintenance and flood mitigation. The government has assured that it will support these requests by providing the necessary resources to resolve infrastructure challenges in alignment with the community’s preferences.
