President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, the incumbent President and MDP presidential candidate, has made significant commitments to the development of Gaafu Dhaalu Thinadhoo.
At a campaign rally held at Thinadhoo on Wednesday, President Solih said the commercial port being developed by the government in Thinadhoo would be completed within the next year, enabling vessels from various countries to unload goods directly to Thinadhoo. He said the port would generate numerous job opportunities, with government institutions such as Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), Customs, and others establishing operations in Thinadhoo.
President Solih also highlighted plans to establish a cold storage facility with a capacity of 1,000 tonnes and a fish factory with freezing capabilities of 120 tonnes to bolster the fisheries sector. Work on these facilities is already in progress, he said.
"This will enable fishermen to directly bring their catch to Thinadhoo City for processing. All necessary services will be readily available," he said.
The president highlighted that the launching of the national ferry network, the RTL services, in Huvadhu Atoll will significantly enhance connectivity and reduce transportation costs. While Immigration and passport services were launched in Thinadhoo on Wednesday, the President said future plans involve upgrading Kaadedhdhoo Airport as an international airport and facilitating international travel for Thinadhoo residents without the need to travel to Male'. Referring to the airport upgrade project contracted to Villa Company, the president said the MDP would not stand by if the project was not being implemented as planned.
The president also disclosed that the Economic Council had last week decided to develop an “integrated” tourism zone in Thinadhoo Lagoon.
“If the Kaadedhdhooo is not an international airport by that time, hopefully, with this project, an international airport will be available here,” he said.
The President also pledged to dredge more land in Thinadhoo in a potential next term and make available space for commercial and industrial work. He also pledged to build 500 flats for Thinadhoo residents. He added that a "picnic island" would be developed within the Thinadhoo lagoon.
President Solih further assured that the ongoing road development project in Thinadhoo will be completed by MTCC. He affirmed the establishment of a Maldives National University campus on the island to provide higher education. Additionally, the existing detox center will be transformed into a rehab facility. Following the construction of a new tertiary hospital, the existing Dr. The Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital building will be used as a campus for medical students under the National University.
