MTCC’s ‘Mahaa Jaarafu’ Will Be Operating with an All-Local Crew Herein

During a press conference held on Wednesday by Maldives Transport and Contracting Company Plc (MTCC), Mr. Adam Azim, its Managing Director has asserted that their colossal hopper suction dredger ‘Mahaa Jarrafu’ will now be operated by an all-local crew of 14; being, the captain, two chief officers, second engineer, four pipe operators, electro technical officer, additional crew members, and cooks. He assures that the local seafarers on-board will be no less proficient in respective of education and experience than to foreign seafarers.

‘Mahaa Jarrafu’ was initially unveiled by former President; Mr. Yaameen Abdul Gayyoom in 2017. At that time, the crew had 10 foreigners working on-board. The vessel was crafted for USD 36 million by Netherland IHC at China’s Nang-Ton Rainbow Marine Technology Boat Yard, and is measured at 92.95 meters in length and 16.30 meters in width. It is capable of dredging from 50 meters underwater and it can easily collect 3700 cubic meters of sand. The vessel has been deployed for 13 projects so far whereas it is currently being used for reclamation of land in K. Guraidhoo.

The transformation of the crew to all locals is said to save USD 1 million per annum for MTCC which was allocated as wages for foreign seafarers. Mr. Azim further stated that this milestone proved the capability of local seafarers and hopes that it motivates Maldivian youths aspiring to become seafarers as a career to reach to this level of expertise.