Hoarafushi’s development is in a dire state; 12.5 million MVR bottling plant at risk of being lost to rust: Waheed

The President of Hoarafushi Island Council, Mohamed Waheed, has stated that development in HA. Hoarafushi has fallen into a dire state under the administration of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

Speaking on Friday's "Fashaairu" program, Waheed stated that during former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's administration, the island saw the development desired by its residents, with numerous projects being carried out. However, he noted that following the change in government, these projects have come to a standstill, leaving the island's development in a dire state.

Referring to the projects of the previous administration, Waheed stated that the Hoarafushi Airport project was a prestigious initiative that fundamentally transformed the island's entire economy. He noted that the project led to an expansion of the guesthouse business and significantly improved the standard of living for the local residents.

Furthermore, Waheed stated that beaches were developed for swimming and sports, alongside the establishment of an outdoor gym, a volleyball court, and a turf football pitch. He noted that the Phase 1 roads were upgraded to modern standards, an ice plant was installed to ensure a local supply of ice, and a juvenile justice unit was established. He also highlighted that a bottling plant worth MVR 12.5 million was developed; however, he lamented that the facility has now been abandoned and left to rust.

A state-of-the-art bottling plant was successfully developed and brought into service. However, following the change in government, the facility was abandoned and left to rust, while the staff who worked there were unceremoniously dismissed. We are talking about a 12.5 million Rufiyaa project here. Furthermore, we managed to replace all the old, dilapidated buildings on this island with new structures. And of course, there is the Hoarafushi Airport—our most prestigious project. We successfully completed that airport as well. Today, thanks to that facility, Hoarafushi has been transformed into a destination accessible to tourists day and night.

President of Hoarafushi Island Council, Mohamed Waheed

Furthermore, Waheed stated that although the construction of the new Fenaka office building was completed during the previous administration, the project has been stalled since the change of government and the building has been left to deteriorate. He added that the current administration must take full responsibility for every day that passes without progress in development or the provision of essential services to the citizens.