MPL Denies Rumours of Fee Hike at Malé North Harbour

Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has denied rumours that the company is in discussions with the government to increase fees for vessels using Malé North Harbour.

Addressing recent reports circulating in the area, MPL stated that it is not engaging in any talks with the government to raise the current fees, calling the rumours “baseless and contrary to the truth.”

The company said it is currently focused on expanding services at the harbour, in line with the Boduthakurufaanu Magu development project. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has instructed that water and electricity be provided to vessels using the ‘A-Zone,’ and MPL is undertaking the necessary work to implement these services.

“Our goal is to provide services to boats and vessels using Malé North Harbour in the most convenient manner possible,” the company said. As part of this effort, changes to the vessel docking and space allocation policy were introduced on 14 March, aimed at reducing queue times for cargo boats and improving access to services.

MPL also clarified that no fees are currently collected from vessels using the ‘D-Zone,’ ‘E-Zone,’ and ‘F-Zone,’ which are reserved for fishing vessels. The only policy change following the redevelopment of Boduthakurufaanu Magu’s northern side is that vessels must now be registered with the relevant government authorities to use these zones.

“Malé North Harbour is a facility linked to the interests of many citizens. It is regrettable that false information is being spread to create public unease,” MPL said, urging the public not to share baseless stories regarding harbour services.