President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom Monday inaugurated the land reclamation for Maldives main airport’s new runway.
The project with an approximate expense of USD 373 million will see the development of a second runway in INIA measuring 3,400 metres in length and 60 metres in breadth. The project also includes development of a new cargo terminal with 120,000 tonne capacity and a fuel farm with storage of 45 million litres.
The new runway’s contractor, Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG) of China, has already brought over a dredger for reclamation, with another on the way.
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed said the reclamation is expected to be completed in five months.
Shore protection of the reclaimed area will begin once the reclamation is completed, he added.
Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has commenced the development of a new reef channel marine vessels at the airport island of Hulhule.
The company’s managing director Adil Moosa revealed Monday that excavation of the new reef channel for marine vessels and ferries that arrive and depart from Hulhule will be completed by next Thursday.
“The new reef channel won’t affect ferry routes much,” he assured, explaining that the old channel is being closed off for the safety of travellers as it is adjacent to the location to be reclaimed.