Fainu Island Council has appealed to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to proceed with the construction of the airport in their island while bearing in mind the concerns that they had raised even previously.
Fainu Island Council has appealed to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to proceed with the construction of the airport in their island while bearing in mind the concerns that they had raised even previously.
The government decided to build the airport in Raa Fainu while there was serious conflict of opinions in the atoll regarding the ideal location for the airport in the southern area of the atoll.
In a statement signed by three members of the island council, they emphasized the importance of considering the concerns raised during the discussions on the construction of the airport and of disclosing all information regarding the work transparently with the residents. The council also appealed for the government to seek public consultation and technical assistance to address these concerns effectively.
According to the council, while the law stipulates that the administration of the country should be decentralized, the aim is to empower people to undertake development initiatives on their own in a democratic manner, ensuring transparency and accountability in the process.
The council also stated its legal ownership of the island’s jurisdiction and highlighted that it has devised and approved a development plan in consultation with the local community.
The statement noted concerns that such a significant decision was made without consulting the council, which has designated areas for increasing financial viability and providing essential services.
During the presidential campaign, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu pledged that the construction of the airport in Raa Fainu would align with the vision of former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom. Residents of Raa Inguraidhoo also expressed that they wished for the airport to be built in Raa Fainu.
Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom handed the construction of the airport in Raa Fainu to Island Aviation. However, the opposition, Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and environmentalists voiced concerns that the construction of the airport would lead to the destruction of the island’s natural environment, including trees. As a result, the project was temporarily halted at the time.
Sign In
