Pres Muizzu Pledges to Complete Kadhdhoo Airport in Three Years, Gives Project Updates in Hithadhoo and Kunahandhoo

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu pledged to complete the development of Laamu Kadhdhoo Airport within three years yesterday, while also announcing infrastructure and healthcare developments in Hithadhoo, Kunahandhoo and Fonadhoo as part of his ongoing tour of Laamu Atoll.

The President began his three-day visit on Sunday, accompanied by Cabinet ministers and senior officials from key government institutions and state-owned enterprises. He is scheduled to visit 11 islands, including Isdhoo, Kalaidhoo, Dhan’bidhoo, Maabaidhoo, Mundoo, Gan, and Maamendhoo. The President is meeting with Island Councils and Women’s Development Committees (WDCs) to discuss local priorities and engage with residents on their development needs.

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Speaking to residents of Fonadhoo, he revealed plans to reclaim 114 hectares of land for a 2,800-metre runway, with an additional 30 hectares to expand Fonadhoo. He said the project would be completed in 36 months.

The Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) will oversee the project, which aims to position Fonadhoo as a regional hub for tourism, education, and trade. According to the President’s Office, the existing Maldives National Defence Force base will remain unaffected.

Other projects formalised during the event include coastal protection, harbour development, road construction, and a sports complex. Plans also include a Maldives National University campus, a language school, and a 50-bed hospital funded by the Saudi Fund for Development.

President Muizzu added that work is underway to contract the first 100 of 500 planned housing units and that Maldives Ports Limited is selecting a contractor for a new transhipment harbour with bunkering services.

Hithadhoo Health Centre to be Upgraded to Hospital-Level Facilit

President Muizzu has confirmed that the Government will upgrade the Hithadhoo Health Centre into a hospital-level facility. He said the expansion marks a step towards improving healthcare accessibility and service quality across the country.

During his visit, several development projects were inaugurated, including a new Bank of Maldives branch, a police station, a fitness and recreation centre, and the Hithadhoo–Kunahandhoo Causeway Project. The President also reaffirmed plans for a second airport in Laamu Atoll, stating that the location is being finalised.

Permanent Solution to Flooding in Kunahandhoo

In Laamu Kunahandhoo, President Muizzu announced that the new road development project will permanently address the island’s long-standing flooding issue.

President Dr @MMuizzu arrives in L. Kunahandhoo to a warm community welcome. #RayyithunGaathah #LaamuAtollVisit pic.twitter.com/qiIR5z21dW— The President's Office (@presidencymv) October 20, 2025

Residents raised concerns about delays in water and sewerage projects, poor road conditions, and limited public facilities. The President pledged transparency in all ongoing projects and confirmed that the shore protection project will include a designated community swimming zone. He added that the school project, managed by Fenaka Corporation, is expected to be completed before the next academic year.