MTCC Accelerates Muli Airport Project Amid Delays

The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), the contractor responsible for the Muli Airport project, has announced renewed efforts to expedite construction and ensure the airport becomes operational promptly. The project, initially scheduled for completion by mid-2023, has faced several delays, primarily due to unfinished dredging work necessary for the airport's completion. Now, the expected completion date has been pushed to mid-2024.
The Meemu Atoll airport development project commenced in August 2021, with the intention of significantly enhancing regional connectivity. As of now, the runway, taxiway, and terminal construction are complete, with 90% of the overall construction finished. However, the project encountered delays due to the incomplete dredging of the area surrounding the runway. An additional 14 hectares of land still needs to be dredged to meet the project requirements.
MTCC has prioritized the resumption of the remaining dredging operations, which had been temporarily halted due to changes in the project's scope. With re-authorization now in place, MTCC is accelerating these efforts and is actively engaging with the Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure to adjust timelines and ensure the project's swift completion.
Ahmed Mubeen, Managing Director of the Regional Airports Company Limited, provided updates on the staffing preparations for Muli Airport. Recruitment for airport staff is set to begin soon, with a hiring process followed by three months of specialized training. This training period is crucial to prepare the new employees adequately and avoid the necessity of transferring staff from other airports. Mubeen emphasized that this training should commence 3-4 months before the airport's opening to ensure all staff are fully prepared.
Muli Airport is being developed on 40 hectares of reclaimed land from 2018. The comprehensive project, valued at over USD 14 million, includes the construction of a 1200-meter long and 30-meter wide runway, along with a taxiway and an apron. This infrastructure is designed to significantly improve air travel and transportation for the region, bolstering both connectivity and economic opportunities.
The MTCC's renewed efforts to expedite the project demonstrate their commitment to overcoming the delays and delivering a functional airport by mid-2024. The completion of this project is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing regional connectivity, providing better access to air travel for residents and visitors of Meemu Atoll.
In summary, while the Muli Airport project has faced significant delays, the MTCC is making concerted efforts to complete the remaining dredging work and finalize construction by mid-2024. The Regional Airports Company Limited is preparing for the airport's operational phase with strategic recruitment and training plans. This project, once completed, will mark a significant milestone in the development of regional transportation infrastructure in the Maldives.