Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) Managing Director Mohamed Rishwan has announced that water, electricity, and other essential services will soon be made available for fishermen at the port area reserved for them.
The move comes after MPL took over the remaining section of the North Harbour, extending to the area in front of the fish market. A part of this zone has already been marked for exclusive use by fishing vessels, which can dock there free of charge.
Speaking during a meeting held last night with around thirty fishermen, Rishwan said MPL is now working to reshape port operations based on the needs of fishermen. He stated that MPL teams will be active in the area over the coming weeks to collect feedback and better understand the challenges currently faced by those using the port.
Rishwan noted that based on this input, MPL will begin efforts to address those challenges starting next week. He also revealed plans to take action against the misuse of port space, promising that individuals found guilty of wrongful use will be removed to free up more space for fishing activities.
In his remarks, Rishwan confirmed that water and electricity will be provided at the eastern side of the port, just as it has been done in the A Zone. He also shared that work is underway to make access to ice and fuel easier for fishermen using the port.
Fishermen at the meeting highlighted their concerns and shared current issues at the site, helping shape MPL’s upcoming efforts to improve conditions.