Economy needs to expand with Hanimaadhoo Airport: Solih

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has said today that it is not enough to develop the HDh. Hanimaadhoo International Airport, the region's economy needs to be expanded as well.

The USD 136 million (MVR 2 billion) project is part of India’s USD 800 million Exim Bank line of credit facility, with the airport being ceremoniously inaugurated last night.

Solih posted on social media regarding the ceremony, stating the airport is a driver of Bodu Thiladhunmathi's economy and will also rapidly develop it.

Solih stated that with the airport, the region's economy needs to be strengthened, tourism capacity increased, open businesses and maximize benefits for the region.

He said that he hopes the government will work to accomplish this.

Solih thanked Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi for providing aid in making this project a reality.

When the project initially started, the Economic Minister at the time Fayyaz Ismail posted on social media as well, stating that it "is an important step toward an economically independent and sustainable north."

"The benefits will no doubt be reaped for generations," said Fayyaz Ismail.

"This also plays an important role in realizing the vision of building Maldives under decentralization," said Fayyaz.

Hanimaadhoo Airport includes a 2.7 km runway, a new terminal capable of handling 1.3 million passengers annually, an air traffic control tower, cargo facilities, a fuel farm and a jetty for seaplane servicing.

Hanimaadhoo Airport began its service in 1990, with it becoming an international airport in 2013.