In a decisive step to address the escalating congestion at Malé’s harbors, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has directed the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) to open the Henveiru and Hulhumalé Ferry Terminals to public ferry operators. This strategic initiative aims to enhance safety and accessibility for passengers, especially during peak travel periods.
Malé City’s harbors are among the nation’s busiest, with hundreds of vessels docking and departing daily. Space constraints have long posed challenges for loading and unloading goods, as well as for passengers boarding and disembarking from vessels. The situation intensifies during school holidays and significant national events, leading to vessels being moored in tandem. This practice complicates access, particularly for the elderly and individuals with disabilities, and raises safety concerns.
Responding to these pressing issues, President Muizzu instructed the MTCC to open the Henveiru and Hulhumalé Ferry Terminals to public ferry operators. Previously reserved exclusively for MTCC use, these terminals will now be accessible to a broader range of ferry services, aiming to distribute traffic more evenly across the harbor facilities.
The MTCC has invited interested operators to express their interest via email by 14:00 on March 10. This move is anticipated to alleviate congestion, enhance safety, and improve accessibility for passengers, while also reducing traffic in the surrounding lagoon.
This initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to improving maritime infrastructure and ensuring the well-being of all passengers. By optimizing the use of existing facilities, the government aims to create a more efficient and secure transportation environment for residents and visitors alike.
