Another 1.8MW generator to be deployed to Addu as power cuts worsen

At a time the power cuts issue in southernmost Addu City has worsened and public frustration continues to grow, the government has once again announced attempts to send an additional 1.8-megawatt generator in a bid to resolve the issue.

State utilities company Fenaka Corporation provides electricity service to the southernmost city.

Resolving the power cut issue in Addu before the concluding fasting month of Ramadan approaches, was a pledge of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

However, with the promise unfulfilled, public criticism of the government has spiraled significantly.

After an additional engine at the power station providing electricity to the connected islands of Addu City experienced issues, leading to extended power cuts on Monday, Addu residents have been voicing concerns.

Following this, Fenaka highlighted that they would bring an additional 1.8-megawatt generator to Addu. Fenaka says that a boat carrying the generator will depart for Addu City within the next two to three days.

On March 13, a one-megawatt generator set was brought to Addu. Fenaka stated that repair work on the existing generator sets in Addu is currently underway.

However, the public continues to criticize Fenaka and the government on social media, labeling their actions as "false stories meant to deflect criticism." A member of the public stated that this is a tactic aimed at reducing the criticism targeted on social media.

Regarding the matter, another member of the public on social media said that Fenaka had previously stated that the electricity problem would be resolved on the first day of Ramadan. However, he said that Addu residents are disappointed as the promise remains unfulfilled even as the last 10 days of Ramadan approached.

In addition to the Addu City Council, lawmakers representing the city have also expressed concern over the long drawn out issue.

Earlier, due to power cuts in Addu City's islands that were hindering the daily routines of residents, on March 10, the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP)’s MP Ibrahim Nazil who represents South Hithadhoo constituency, submitted an emergency motion to the People’s Majlis. However, apart from 12 MDP lawmakers and Ahmed Azaan, the main ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) MP for Central Hithadhoo constituency, no additional support was received to accept the motion. The PNC supermajority rejected the motion.